(Image: Jordan Pettitt)
Thousands of homes have lost power and flights have been cancelled as two storms hit the UK.
Storm Austen brought gusts of 76mph to St Mary’s Airport on the Isles of Scilly on October 23.
More than 16,000 homes in the South West were without electricity before 11am, according to National Grid.
More than 5,000 of those properties belong to customers on the priority services register who require extra support.
Engineers had earlier restored power to more than 12,000 properties by 8am.
Amy Webb, chief operating officer at National Grid Electricity Distribution, said: “We know how difficult it is to be without power, particularly during severe weather.
“Our engineers are out across the affected areas, working to repair the damage and get customers back on supply as quickly and safely as possible. We’re grateful for their patience while that work continues.
“If you see a fallen power line, damaged pole or other damage to our equipment, please stay well clear and call 105 straight away.”
Forecasters confirmed an amber warning for wind covering Cornwall, Devon and the Isles of Scilly ended at 10am on October 23.
Storm Austen is moving eastwards into the North Sea, but a separate system, Storm Boelo, is approaching.
An amber warning for wind from Storm Boelo will run for 24 hours from 9pm on October 24, covering Scotland, the north coast of Northern Ireland, Cumbria and Northumberland.
Met Office forecasters warned of gusts of 55mph to 65mph widely, with speeds reaching 70mph to 80mph in exposed coastal areas.
Andy Burnham spoke about civil preparedness while attending a summit organised after summer wildfires.
Mr Burnham said: “No, we are having the conversation with people about being better prepared because we’re living in a world where unexpected events seem to be becoming more and more common.
“We potentially are facing a winter of greater flooding, so it’s about recognising all of those risks and taking action.”
Ministers have also urged the public to keep food and emergency supplies in case of multi-day disruptions.
Disruption hit transport networks across the country.
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Loganair cancelled flights on October 23 connecting Jersey, Bristol, Exeter and Southampton, while Gatwick Airport recorded seven cancellations.
Southern Rail reported a lightning strike at Normans Bay prevented trains from stopping, while a fallen tree blocked tracks between Poole and Bournemouth.
Network Rail Scotland confirmed trains will slow down over the weekend to protect passengers during rain.
Cornwall Council confirmed more than 20 schools closed on October 23, with more than 50 opening late.
Highways teams dealt with 100 incidents across the county, with nine road closures caused by fallen trees and debris.