A new set of maps highlights the projected route of the approaching Storm Goretti, which is expected to bring a potent mix of snow, ice, rain, and strong 100mph winds. Amber weather alerts have been issued nationwide due to the ‘multi-hazard’ weather event caused by Storm Goretti. Additionally, a red life-threatening warning has been put in place for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, prompting hundreds of thousands of residents to receive emergency alerts advising them to stay indoors.
The Midlands region may experience up to 30cm of snow in the coming hours as Storm Goretti moves in from the southwest. According to Met Office forecaster Alex Burkill, the storm is set to bring wet, windy, and wintry conditions to various parts of the UK. Burkill explained that Storm Goretti, named by Meteo France, will bring strong winds and significant snow to central and possibly southern areas. He added that the collision of rain with existing cold air could lead to substantial snowfall on the northern edge as the storm progresses into Friday.
The UK Health Security Agency has issued amber cold weather health alerts effective until January 11, warning of severe impacts on health and social care services. The alerts anticipate an increase in fatalities, particularly among individuals aged 65 and older or those with underlying health conditions, with potential effects also expected among younger age groups.
Forecast maps indicate that by 6 pm, the storm will envelop most of England and Wales. By 9 pm, heavy snow is expected in Wales and the Midlands, with cities like Birmingham likely to see significant snowfall rates. London, Essex, and Kent are forecast to experience heavy rain around midnight. In the early hours of Friday, Arctic conditions are predicted for parts of Lincolnshire and East Yorkshire.
While conditions are set to improve in Wales and the East Midlands, the storm is expected to persist further east by 6 am. As the storm moves towards East Anglia and beyond to the continent, isolated snow showers are expected in Lancashire, the northeast, and Suffolk. The impact of the storm is likely to linger in certain parts of the country by noon the following day.