Storm Austen batters France and UK with winds of up to 160 km/h

Storm Austen has unleashed powerful winds across France and the UK, reaching speeds of up to 160 km/h. The severe weather has led to significant disruptions, including downed trees, damaged infrastructure, and widespread power outages. Emergency services are on high alert as they respond to incidents caused by the storm's intensity. In coastal areas, waves have surged dramatically, prompting warnings for residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Authorities are urging people to remain vigilant as the storm continues to impact various regions. The aftermath of Storm Austen is expected to involve extensive cleanup and recovery efforts as communities assess the damage and begin to restore normalcy.