UPDATE: Large parts of the UK are facing potential “risk to life” warnings as Storm Goretti sweeps in tonight, with dangerous conditions expected across several regions. Amber weather warnings have been issued for Wales, the Midlands, and South Yorkshire, where heavy snowfall and rain are forecasted.
The severe weather advisory will be in effect from 8 PM on January 5 until 9 AM on January 6, with expected snowfall reaching up to 30 cm in the Midlands and wind gusts hitting 90 mph in exposed areas. The Met Office has warned that this could lead to “travel delays, road and rail closures, power cuts, and a potential risk to life and property.”
As the storm approaches, significant disruptions are already being reported. The Hope Valley train line between Manchester and Sheffield will close from 6 PM today, with East Midlands Railway not expecting to resume normal services until Saturday. Additionally, airports in the Channel Islands, including those in Jersey, Guernsey, and Alderney, will shut down starting 6 PM as the islands brace for the storm.
Schools across Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and North Yorkshire have also announced closures as the storm prepares to unleash its fury. Met Office meteorologist Alex Burkill stated that Storm Goretti will bring “wet, windy, and wintry weather” to many parts of the UK, noting that the storm is named by Meteo France.
Burkill elaborated, “As the rain pushes in and encounters the cold air, significant snow is likely on the northern edge of the storm.” The chief forecaster described Storm Goretti as a “multi-hazard event,” indicating widespread snow accumulation of 5-10 cm in Wales and the Midlands, with localized areas potentially receiving 15-25 cm and up to 30 cm.
Travelers are urged to stay informed, as National Highways has issued an amber warning for the West and East Midlands, cautioning that conditions will be particularly treacherous. “Routes around Birmingham to Leicester and Nottingham will experience difficult driving conditions,” the agency stated. The A628 Woodhead Pass will also close both ways from 8 PM today due to severe weather.
In light of the impending storm, Network Rail urges passengers to check for travel updates, as some railway lines in Wales and north-west England may shut down as a precaution. Regional director Jake Kelly noted that thousands of staff will work to keep services running, but acknowledged that disruption is anticipated due to the storm’s intensity.
Furthermore, an amber wind warning is in effect across parts of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, with forecasters predicting gusts of 80-90 mph in exposed locations. Warnings also extend to other regions, including a yellow warning for wind across much of south-west England.
As Storm Goretti sweeps across the UK, officials have issued a yellow snow warning for a considerable part of England and Wales, effective from 5 PM today until 12 PM on January 6. The Met Office has indicated that this heavy snow may lead to significant disruption and hazardous travel conditions.
Health officials are on alert, with amber cold weather health alerts issued by the UK Health Security Agency until January 11. The agency warns of potential impacts on health services and expects an uptick in deaths, particularly among vulnerable populations.
As the UK braces for Storm Goretti, residents are urged to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Officials are monitoring the situation closely, and further updates will be provided as the storm progresses.
