The United Kingdom is bracing for a severe battering from Storm Goretti, with the Met Office issuing urgent amber warnings for powerful winds and significant snowfall expected to hit southern and central parts of the country. The forecaster has described the incoming system as a "multi-hazard event" poised to disrupt travel and daily life.
Amber Alerts for Wind and Snow
The Met Office has escalated its warnings to amber level for strong winds targeting areas like west Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Simultaneously, a separate amber warning for a combination of heavy snow and gale-force winds covers sections of England and Wales. The Midlands region could witness snow accumulations of up to 30 centimetres, accompanied by wind gusts reaching a ferocious 90 miles per hour.
A meteorologist from the Met Office warned that Storm Goretti will usher in "wet, windy and wintry weather" across several regions. The storm is predicted to bring "some strong winds and some significant snow to central and perhaps southern parts." The official explained that as rain pushes into the existing cold air mass, it will trigger "some fairly significant snow" from later on Thursday into Friday.
Major Travel Disruption and Health Alerts
Authorities have advised the public to complete essential journeys and seek safe shelter before the intense weather, termed a 'weather bomb', makes landfall. The amber snow warning valid from Thursday evening into Friday is likely to impact Wales, South Yorkshire, and the Midlands. This severe weather is expected to lead to cancellations of rail services and flights, and could potentially isolate rural communities.
In a related alert, National Highways has issued its own amber warning for snowfall in the West and East Midlands, effective from 6 pm on Thursday until 9 am on Friday. The agency specifically highlighted that routes around Birmingham stretching to Leicester and Nottingham will face "particularly difficult driving conditions." They urged drivers to check forecasts before travelling, warning of "considerable delays." The A628 Woodhead Pass will be closed in both directions from 8 pm on Thursday.
Nationwide Weather Warnings in Effect
The disruptive weather is not confined to England and Wales. Scotland is under a yellow warning for snow and ice from 10 pm Wednesday until noon on Thursday. Northern Ireland also has a yellow ice alert in place from midnight Thursday until 10 am.
The repercussions extend beyond transport. The UK Health Security Agency has activated amber cold weather health alerts across the country, which will remain until January 11. This indicates that the severe conditions are likely to significantly impact health and social care services, posing risks to vulnerable populations.
Residents across the UK are being urged to stay updated with the latest forecasts from the Met Office and follow official advice to ensure their safety during this powerful winter storm.
