Storm Austen has brought powerful winds and travel disruption to North Wales, with rail services between Chester and Holyhead cancelled and restrictions in place on the A55 Britannia Bridge.

Gusts of up to 74 miles per hour have been recorded in parts of Wales as the storm swept across the country on Friday, prompting warnings about hazardous driving conditions and the risk of damage from falling branches and debris.

Transport for Wales cancelled services in both directions between Chester and Holyhead because of the forecast severe weather. Disruption was initially expected to continue until around 8.20pm on Friday, although passengers were advised to check for the latest updates before travelling.

The railway operator has also warned of wider disruption across its network as strong winds and heavy rain affect services.

On the A55, a 30mph speed restriction has been imposed on Britannia Bridge, which connects Anglesey with the mainland. Drivers have been urged to allow extra time for their journeys and take particular care on exposed roads.

Further along the coast, Beaumaris flood gates have been closed because of exceptionally high tides, while work to refurbish the former marine terminal building at Amlwch Port has been paused after storm damage to a roof beam. Anglesey County Council has asked people to avoid the site while contractors make it safe.

Power cuts have also been reported in parts of Anglesey and Gwynedd, including around Caernarfon, Llangefni, Amlwch and Cemaes Bay.

The Met Office said Storm Austen was moving away towards continental Europe on Friday, although wet and windy conditions were continuing in parts of the UK. A yellow wind warning remained in force across parts of Wales into the evening.

Attention is now turning to Storm Boelo, which is forecast to bring another spell of heavy rain and strong winds from Saturday.

The Met Office expects the most severe conditions from Boelo to affect Scotland, Northern Ireland and parts of northern England, where an amber warning has been issued. Gusts of 60 to 70 miles per hour are possible widely in affected areas, with stronger gusts in exposed coastal locations.

North Wales is also expected to experience further rain and blustery conditions as the weather system moves eastwards. Coastal areas could see gale-force winds, while heavy downpours may make driving conditions difficult.

People planning to travel over the weekend are being advised to check road, rail and ferry updates before setting off. Strong winds can bring down trees and branches, while exposed bridges and coastal routes may be particularly affected.

The latest forecasts and warnings are available from the Met Office, while rail passengers can check the Transport for Wales service updates.