Amber wind warning for Cornwall as Storm Austen approaches

The Met Office has issued an amber warning for wind for the whole of Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly and parts of west Devon, as Storm Austen approaches the UK.

The storm is expected to bring a spell of very strong winds and heavy rain to southern parts of the UK late on Thursday and into Friday. A wider yellow warning for wind remains in place from Thursday evening into Friday, and has been updated as forecasters have grown more confident about the storm's track and strength.

Gusts of up to 70mph

Storm Austen is forecast to cross southern Britain late on Thursday and during Friday morning, with the greatest risk of disruption in southern and south-western areas. Alongside severe gales, some places will see spells of heavy rain. A yellow warning for rain has also been issued for parts of southern and eastern Scotland on Friday.

Chris Bulmer, a Met Office deputy chief forecaster, said: "Storm Austen is expected to bring a spell of impactful weather to parts of the UK from Thursday night and through Friday. While there remains some uncertainty in the exact track of the storm, there is increasing confidence in the potential for disruptive winds across parts of south-west England, which is why an amber warning has been issued."

"Wind gusts could potentially reach 60 to 70mph for a time, and these strong winds will be combined with spells of heavy rain. People in affected areas should keep up to date with the latest forecast and warnings as the event develops."

The wind will ease gradually through Friday afternoon and evening.

An unsettled weekend

The weather is expected to stay unsettled through the weekend and into next week. Another area of low pressure is likely to bring strong winds to northern parts of the UK on Saturday and Sunday, with the possibility of further warnings.

Stay safe at the coast

The RNLI is urging people to take extra care at the coast, where large waves, strong winds and dangerous sea conditions are possible. Ross Macleod, its water safety manager, said: "If you plan to visit the coast or a waterside location, we urge you to stay a safe distance from the water, as conditions could knock you off your feet or wash you into the sea."

Anyone who ends up in the water should remember the charity's advice to "float to live": lie back with ears in the water, spread arms and legs, and stay calm until breathing is under control before calling for help or swimming to safety. Anyone who sees someone else in trouble should not go in after them, but call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard, tell the person to float, and throw them something that floats.

What it means for Birmingham

Birmingham is outside the amber warning, but the storm will still bring a wet and windy end to the week. People travelling to the south-west for half-term, which begins at the end of the week for most schools in the city, should check road and rail updates before setting off, as the M5 and rail lines into Devon and Cornwall are likely to be affected.