Brighton's West Pier partially collapsed into the sea during Storm Austen, as powerful winds battered the UK coastline. The historic structure, which has stood for over a century, was severely damaged by the storm's intense waves. Local authorities confirmed the collapse, with some sections of the pier disappearing into the water.
Storm Austen, the first named storm of the 2024 season, brought winds of up to 80mph to parts of England. The storm also affected France, with gusts reaching 160 km/h in Brittany. In the UK, the storm caused widespread damage, including uprooted trees, flooded roads, and damaged boats.
The West Pier, a Grade II listed building, had already been in a state of disrepair. The storm's impact has accelerated its decline, raising concerns about its future preservation. Emergency services were deployed to the area, and local officials have called for urgent repairs. The storm also forced the closure of Chester Zoo due to safety concerns.
The storm followed closely on the heels of Storm Boelo, which caused travel disruptions in the north of the UK. With multiple storms affecting the region, officials warn of ongoing challenges for infrastructure and coastal communities.
