Residents across Gwent have been advised to prepare for possible electricity interruptions as Storm Austen approaches from the Atlantic and threatens to bring damaging wind and prolonged heavy rain to parts of Wales.
National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED) has warned that outages could affect Gwent and other areas of south Wales.
Chief operating officer Amy Webb said the organisation would closely watch its network and position crews to respond safely and quickly to any weather-related damage.
A yellow weather warning applies in south-east and west Wales from midnight on Thursday, October 22, until 2pm on Friday, October 23.
The Met Office expects the strongest winds to arrive after midnight and continue into Friday morning.
Forecast gusts across Gwent are expected to reach 50mph to 60mph, with speeds of 70mph possible in exposed and coastal areas of Wales.
Storm Austen is currently forming over the Atlantic.
The jet stream is expected to direct the system towards the UK during Thursday and Friday, with wet and unusually windy conditions affecting some areas.
Further heavy rain and strong winds are likely to develop this weekend.
Heavy rainfall is forecast overnight, creating a risk of difficult travel conditions and additional disruption.
The Met Office has warned that severe weather may damage buildings, prompt road and bridge closures, interrupt electricity supplies and cause delays to road, rail, air and ferry services.
Residents have been advised to keep a torch at hand, avoid candles and paraffin heaters, charge mobile phones and battery packs, and keep track of weather updates.
Checks are also recommended for neighbours, friends and relatives who may be vulnerable.
Although the electricity network is built to withstand severe conditions, extreme weather can still lead to power outages.
NGED crews will remain on standby to restore supply as soon as possible where damage occurs.
Customers affected by an outage can use the National Grid website or telephone 105 or 0800 6783 105.