Storm Austen: Strong winds, heavy rain and high tides expected as Formby prepares for a stormy weekend

Storm Austen is heading towards Britain, bringing strong winds, heavy rain and potentially disruptive weather to Formby and the wider Merseyside area from Friday 23rd October, with residents being advised to take precautions ahead of a particularly unsettled weekend.

The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for wind affecting parts of North West England, with gusts potentially reaching 49mph in Liverpool and surrounding areas on Friday.

Although the strongest winds associated with Storm Austen are expected further south, Formby is still forecast to experience windy conditions, periods of heavy rain and possible disruption.

Temperatures are expected to remain around 10 to 11°C, although the strong winds could make conditions feel considerably colder.

What weather can Formby expect?

Thursday 22nd October will see a mixture of sunny spells and isolated showers, with brighter conditions developing later in the afternoon.

Friday 23rd October is expected to bring the worst of the weather associated with Storm Austen, with heavy rain, strong winds and the possibility of sudden, powerful gusts throughout the day.

Winds are forecast to ease overnight before another spell of wet and windy weather arrives on Saturday.

Saturday 24th October may begin with some brighter, drier conditions before heavy rain and stronger winds move in from the west later in the day.

Sunday is expected to remain unsettled, with sunny intervals, variable cloud and blustery showers.

Met Office warns of possible disruption

The Met Office has highlighted several potential impacts from Storm Austen, including disruption to transport, temporary power cuts and hazardous conditions in exposed areas.

Strong winds could affect high sided vehicles travelling along exposed roads and bridges, while bus and train services may experience delays.

There is also the possibility of damage caused by falling branches, unsecured objects and debris being blown around.

Residents are being encouraged to prepare in advance rather than wait until the strongest winds arrive.

Important safety advice for Formby residents

With strong winds forecast, there are several simple precautions residents can take to protect themselves, their families and their properties.

Around your home and garden

Secure or bring indoors any loose garden furniture, plant pots, bins, children’s toys and other objects that could be blown around.

Trampolines should be properly secured, as these can become particularly dangerous during strong winds.

Check that garden gates, sheds and fences are secure, and avoid leaving lightweight items outside.

Keep windows and doors closed during particularly strong gusts.

When walking outdoors

Take extra care when walking near large trees, particularly in wooded areas such as Formby Pinewoods, where falling branches could present a danger.

Avoid walking beneath damaged trees or branches that appear unstable.

Be mindful of loose roof tiles, signs, scaffolding and other objects that could become dislodged in strong winds.

Dog walkers should take particular care in exposed areas and woodland.

Driving and travelling

Motorists should be prepared for sudden gusts of wind, particularly when travelling along the Formby Bypass, exposed roads and bridges.

High sided vehicles, vans and lorries may be especially vulnerable to strong crosswinds.

Drivers should allow additional time for journeys and remain alert to fallen branches, debris and standing water.

Anyone travelling by train or bus should check for possible delays or cancellations before setting off.

Preparing for possible power cuts

The Met Office has warned that some areas affected by Storm Austen could experience temporary interruptions to electricity supplies.

Residents are advised to keep torches and spare batteries available, charge mobile phones and consider having a portable power bank ready.

Anyone relying on electrically powered medical equipment should ensure they have appropriate arrangements in place in case of an interruption to their electricity supply.

High tides could add to dangerous conditions at Formby Beach

Alongside the strong winds and heavy rain, Formby’s coastline will also experience high tides over the weekend.

On Saturday 24th October, high tide is predicted to reach 8.40 metres at 10:26am.

If strong onshore winds coincide with high tide, seawater could be pushed further towards the shore, potentially raising water levels above the predicted tidal height.

This could result in rough seas, larger breaking waves and hazardous conditions along the coastline.

Visitors to Formby Beach, Lifeboat Road, Victoria Road and surrounding coastal areas are urged to exercise caution.

The Coastguard advises people to remain well away from the water’s edge during stormy conditions, as large waves can unexpectedly sweep people off their feet.

Anyone walking dogs near the coastline should keep them under close control and avoid entering the water if an animal gets into difficulty.

If you see someone in danger at the coast, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

What should you do if you encounter storm damage?

Residents who come across fallen trees, damaged structures or dangerous debris should avoid approaching or attempting to move anything that could present a risk.

Never touch fallen electricity cables or objects that may be in contact with them.

If you experience a power cut, you can contact the national electricity emergency number on 105.

If there is an immediate danger to life, call 999.

Further unsettled weather expected over the weekend

Although Storm Austen is expected to move eastwards during Friday, the unsettled conditions are unlikely to end there.

Another developing weather system is expected to bring further wind and rain to parts of northern Britain over the weekend.

The exact strength and track of this system remain uncertain, and residents are advised to keep checking the latest forecasts.

Weather warnings can change at short notice as new information becomes available.

Formby Bubble will continue to monitor the situation

With strong winds, heavy rain and high tides expected over the coming days, residents are encouraged to take sensible precautions and remain aware of changing conditions.

Those planning outdoor activities, travelling longer distances or visiting the coastline should check the latest weather information before setting off.

Formby Bubble will continue to monitor Storm Austen and the developing weekend weather conditions, bringing residents any important updates, warnings or disruption affecting Formby and the surrounding areas.

Please take care and stay safe.