The UK is bracing for extreme weather as Storm Goretti approaches, with amber warnings in place across various regions. Heavy snowfall and ferocious winds of up to 90mph are expected to cause major disruptions, prompting the Met Office to issue high-level alerts for parts of the country.
The storm, named by Meteo France, is set to bring a mix of snow, strong winds, and freezing temperatures to the UK, with significant impacts likely in areas such as Wales, the Midlands, and South Yorkshire. The weather conditions are anticipated to cause delays, power outages, and hazardous travel.
Amber Warnings for Snow and Wind
According to the Met Office, the worst of the weather is expected between Thursday evening and Friday morning, with up to 30cm of snow forecast in some areas. Amber warnings, which signify an increased likelihood of significant impacts, have been issued for parts of Wales, the Midlands, and South Yorkshire. In these regions, the storm is predicted to cause severe disruption to transport networks, with delays and cancellations possible for rail services and flights.
In addition to snow, Storm Goretti will bring strong winds. The Met Office predicts gusts of up to 90mph in some of the most exposed coastal and hilly areas, with 50-60mph winds likely across the south-west. The combination of heavy snow and high winds is expected to create dangerous driving conditions, particularly in the West and East Midlands, where National Highways has warned of potential travel delays.
Meteorologist Alex Burkill from the Met Office highlighted the storm’s impact, stating that “wet, windy and wintry weather” would be felt across large parts of the UK. The storm is expected to bring significant snowfall to central and southern regions, with snow potentially falling at rates of 5-10cm per hour, adding to the already hazardous conditions.
Health and Safety Concerns Amidst Extreme Weather
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued cold weather health alerts in response to the storm, warning that the extreme conditions could have severe impacts on vulnerable groups. According to the agency, older people and those with pre-existing health conditions are most at risk, and a rise in deaths is expected due to the cold weather.
The amber warnings for snow come with a risk of power cuts, especially in rural areas where snow could block roads, cutting off communities. The UKHSA’s warnings are particularly aimed at encouraging people to take extra precautions in the coming days, as the storm’s effects are likely to be felt well into Friday. Health authorities also warned that disruptions to social care and health services could exacerbate the impacts on vulnerable individuals.
As Storm Goretti continues to sweep across the UK, authorities are urging people to stay informed through official weather updates and avoid unnecessary travel. The expected heavy snow and powerful winds underscore the importance of being prepared for severe weather conditions and taking the necessary precautions to protect both personal safety and property.
