UPDATE: The UK braces for severe weather as Storm Goretti sweeps in tonight, prompting amber warnings across vast areas including Wales, the Midlands, and South Yorkshire. The Met Office has issued alerts for heavy snow and rain, forecasting potential “travel delays, road and rail closures, power cuts, and a risk to life and property.”
The weather advisory takes effect at 8 PM on January 5, 2023, lasting until 9 AM on January 6. Up to 30 cm of snow could blanket the Midlands, while gusts of wind reaching 90 mph may lash exposed regions.
Travelers are urged to stay vigilant: the Hope Valley train line between Manchester and Sheffield will be closed from 6 PM tonight, and East Midlands Railway does not anticipate restoring services until Saturday.
Air travel faces disruptions as airports in Jersey, Guernsey, and Alderney will close at 6 PM. Residents are advised to remain indoors this evening for safety.
Storm Goretti is classified as a “multi-hazard event.” Meteorologist Alex Burkill warns of “wet, windy, and wintry weather” as the storm advances from the south-west. Significant snowfall is expected, particularly in central and southern regions.
Met Office chief forecaster Neil Armstrong stated that areas in Wales and the Midlands could see 5-10 cm of snow, with 15-25 cm possible in higher elevations, and a risk of disruption as conditions deteriorate.
Driving conditions are anticipated to become hazardous. National Highways has issued its own amber warning for the West and East Midlands from 6 PM until 9 AM Friday, advising travelers to reconsider their journeys due to considerable delays. The A628 Woodhead Pass will close both ways tonight due to severe weather conditions.
As the storm intensifies, Network Rail urges passengers to check for updates. Some rail service disruptions are expected in Wales and parts of north-west England. Regional director Jake Kelly confirmed that thousands of staff will work to maintain operations but warned that the storm’s scale may lead to considerable service interruptions.
An amber wind warning is in effect across parts of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly tonight, with gusts expected to reach 80-90 mph in exposed areas. Additionally, a yellow warning for snow and ice has been issued for significant portions of Scotland and Northern Ireland.
The situation is dynamic, with ongoing assessments of the storm’s impact. Officials anticipate that the health implications of this severe weather will be profound, particularly for vulnerable populations, as UK Health Security Agency alerts remain active until January 11.
As Storm Goretti continues to develop, residents are encouraged to stay updated on weather forecasts and advisories. The storm represents a critical weather event for the UK, with significant implications for safety and travel.
Stay tuned for further updates on this rapidly evolving situation.
