Storm Austen caused widespread flight cancellations and operational disruptions at multiple UK airports on October 24, 2026. Flights serving Bristol, Exeter, Southampton, Jersey and Guernsey faced cancellations while airports and airlines adjusted to high winds reaching speeds of up to 80mph.
Loganair cancelled several flights linking Southampton, Jersey, Bristol and Exeter. Aurigny airlines cancelled flights to and from Somerset for October 24 and 25 due to forecasted gusts near 65mph. Guernsey Airport reported overnight damage to its terminal building from high winds and inspected the structure before planning to reopen by 2 p.m. that day. London City Airport prepared for
likely delays associated with its exposed runway conditions. Exeter Airport cancelled some flights amid the storm.
The Met Office issued a yellow storm warning for much of south-east England and an amber wind warning effective for 24 hours from 9 p.m. targeting northern UK regions including Scotland, Northern Ireland, Cumbria and Northumberland. Wind gusts across affected areas, including the Channel Islands, ranged from 50mph to 80mph. National Grid Electricity Distribution reported over 18,000 homes lost power in south-west England before 10:30 a.m. Additionally, 20 schools in Brighton closed for the day while 50 reopened later in the afternoon.
Train services
across England were severely disrupted due to fallen trees and lightning strikes related to the storm. National Rail and Great Western Railway issued warnings regarding cancellations and delays on multiple routes. Transport for Scotland advised travelling only when necessary given the conditions and expected disruptions.
Guernsey Airport director Richard Thomasson stated they were conducting final safety checks on the damaged terminal with plans to reopen by 2 p.m., noting the airport’s readiness to extend hours to facilitate passenger movement. Bristol Airport posted a warning on social media advising passengers to verify flight status before travel, monitor updates, allow additional time,
and drive carefully.
Storm Austen is the first named storm of the 2026/27 season impacting the UK and Western Europe with severe weather disrupting air, rail, and road travel on October 24. Following Austen, Storm Boelo was forecast to affect Northern Ireland, Scotland, and northern England over the coming weekend.
