Newly released maps display the projected path of the approaching Storm Goretti, which is set to bring a potent combination of snow, ice, rain, and gusts reaching 100mph.
Amber weather alerts have been issued nationwide due to Storm Goretti’s impact, described as a ‘multi hazard’ weather phenomenon. A red danger to life warning is specifically in place for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, prompting hundreds of thousands to receive emergency notifications advising them to remain indoors.
Forecasters predict parts of the Midlands could experience up to 30cm of snow within hours as Storm Goretti advances from the southwest. The Met Office’s Alex Burkill cautioned that the storm would usher in “wet, windy, and wintry conditions” across various regions of the UK.
Named by Meteo France, Storm Goretti is expected to bring strong winds and significant snow to central and potentially southern areas. Burkill noted the clash between incoming rain and existing cold air could result in substantial snow accumulation in the north by tomorrow and into Friday.
In response to the severe weather, the UK Health Security Agency has issued amber cold weather health alerts until 11 January, foreseeing significant impacts on health and social care services, particularly among older individuals and those with underlying health conditions.
Weather projections indicate heavy snowfall across Wales and the Midlands by 9pm, with cities like Birmingham expecting substantial snow rates. London, Essex, and Kent are slated to experience heavy rain around midnight, while areas in Lincolnshire and East Yorkshire brace for Arctic conditions by early Friday.
As the storm progresses, Wales and the East Midlands are likely to see clearing weather, although the storm will persist further east by 6am. Isolated snow showers are anticipated in Lancashire, the northeast, and Suffolk as the storm moves towards East Anglia and beyond. Lingering effects of the storm are expected in some regions by noon the following day.
