Overview
- Forecasters say a named storm called Austen could pass over the province on Friday evening, though the exact track and core remain uncertain.
- Coastal areas may see temporary very strong winds up to force 7 at times and short periods of stormy conditions at sea.
- Inland gusts are expected to reach force 6 to 8, which raises the risk of fallen trees, damage and travel disruption.
- Rain will return overnight and come back in afternoon episodes, with the weekend staying windy and Saturday afternoon likely the wettest period.
- The KNMI, together with the Met Office and Met Éireann, uses the storm-name list to boost public awareness and preparedness, a practice reinforced by the damaging night of June 19–20 that knocked down trees and halted trains.