Gusts reached 161 km/h at Pointe du Raz as Storm Austen knocked out power to about 161,000 homes in France and forced rail suspensions and bridge closures.
Storm Austen swept across northwestern France on Friday, October 23, bringing violent gusts, rough seas and transport disruption. Euronews reported gusts of 161 km/h at Pointe du Raz in Finistère and October wind-speed records at several weather stations.
At the time of the report, around 161,000 homes in Brittany, Pays de la Loire and Normandy were without electricity. Fallen trees and dangerous conditions led to rail suspensions and bridge closures, complicating travel across the affected departments.
The storm's effects extended beyond France. UK forecasters warned of gusts up to 130 km/h in Cornwall and Devon, while Germany expected strong winds in the west and northwest under the name Luise. Conditions were expected to move eastward as the system travelled along the Channel coast.
Passengers and drivers should check local rail operators, road authorities and official weather alerts before travelling, because reopening decisions depend on conditions and clearance work. The figures here reflect Euronews' report at 12:46 local time and may change as restoration crews assess damage.