Rainbow Illuminates Glastonbury Tor as Storm Austen Approaches

A breathtaking image of Glastonbury Tor, taken at dawn on Thursday, October 22, showcases the historic site bathed in an illuminated sky with a prominent rainbow. The photograph, captured by Michelle Cowbourne, looks toward the tower of St Michael's Church atop the ancient Somerset mound.

The scene depicts the church silhouetted against a vivid sky with hues of red and deep blue, bisected by a symmetrical orange rainbow. Cowbourne described the moment, stating it occurred just after "torrential rain." As the sun rose, clouds gathered from the west, and the ensuing rain coincided with the sun's emergence, lighting the sky with orange on one side and darkness on the other. The rainbow appeared briefly above, presenting a challenge to capture while keeping equipment dry.

Another photograph taken by Cowbourne offers a view from inside St Michael's Church, showing the rainbow with the rising sun casting a yellow glow over the hill and the town below.

These images emerge as Storm Austen is forecast to impact Somerset with gusts of 50 to 60 mph from Thursday night into Friday, with potential for winds exceeding 70 mph in exposed coastal areas. The Met Office has issued warnings for potential travel disruptions, damage to buildings, and power outages across southern England and south Wales.

An amber wind warning is in effect from 1 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Friday for Devon and Cornwall, where gusts could reach 60 to 70 mph, and up to 80 mph in some exposed locations. The warning indicates risks of power cuts, structural damage, and potential danger to life from coastal hazards.

Additionally, yellow wind warnings are in place for broader regions of the South West, South Wales, and along England's South Coast from midnight to 5 p.m. on Friday. Strong winds are expected to extend across southern England throughout Thursday and Friday, with gusts of 50 to 60 mph anticipated, and some areas potentially experiencing winds above 70 mph.