Storm Goretti follows days of freezing temperatures and hazardous conditions that have already forced school closures and affected transport. According to the Met Office, the storm, named by French meteorological service Météo France, will primarily affect southern parts of the UK on Thursday and Friday, with snow, ice, and strong winds causing significant disruption.
Travel Chaos and Disruptions Across the Country
The arrival of Storm Goretti will lead to further travel delays and disruptions, as icy roads and snowstorms take hold across much of the UK. According to the Met Office, snow warnings are in place from Thursday evening through midday Friday across Wales and parts of central and southern England. Up to 20 cm of snow is expected in higher ground areas, including the hills of Wales, which could severely impact road conditions and make driving dangerous.
In addition to the snow, the storm will bring high winds to the southwest of England, with gusts reaching up to 70 mph. These strong winds are likely to cause further delays and disruptions to transport, particularly in coastal areas where the risk of drifting snow and coastal gales is highest. With many routes already affected by snow, rail services in particular will face continued challenges, with certain train lines, including services in northern Scotland, likely to experience delays.
Hundreds of schools across the UK have already closed due to snow and icy conditions, and further closures are expected as Storm Goretti intensifies. The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for snow, ice, and wind, and advised that conditions are likely to worsen throughout Thursday and Friday. Local authorities in affected areas are preparing for extended disruptions, including potential power cuts and difficulties for rural communities.
Health Concerns Amid Freezing Temperatures
In addition to the immediate travel and weather impacts, Storm Goretti’s icy conditions are raising concerns over public health. According to the UK Health Security Agency, cold weather health alerts remain in place, particularly for vulnerable populations. The ongoing cold snap has already contributed to a rise in health risks, including an increase in heart attacks and respiratory issues. The agency has urged the public to take extra precautions, particularly when venturing outdoors in hazardous conditions.
The combination of heavy snow, ice, and low temperatures also poses significant risks of slips and falls. According to the Met Office, icy patches on untreated surfaces will continue to cause hazards on pavements, cycle paths, and minor roads. The situation has already led to several injuries, with emergency services responding to accidents caused by slippery conditions. As the cold weather continues, it’s expected that the number of incidents could rise.
Local authorities have responded by issuing advice on staying safe during the storm. For those travelling, the RAC has stressed the importance of allowing extra time for journeys, preparing vehicles for winter conditions, and carrying proper equipment like scrapers and de-icer.
While the UK faces the aftermath of the storm and prepares for more wintry conditions, the challenge of managing the ongoing weather disruptions remains significant. The storm serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by extreme winter weather and the need for careful preparation, particularly in regions most vulnerable to snow and ice.
