A red weather warning has been issued by the Met Office for Storm Goretti, urging people to remain indoors. Storm Goretti is currently affecting the UK and has been classified as a “multi-hazard event” by the Met Office, bringing the potential for up to 30cm of snow and wind gusts reaching 100mph. Weather warnings are in effect nationwide, with a red warning specifically for the South West region, covering Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly until midnight today. The Met Office warns of exceptionally strong winds with “violent gusts” lasting up to three hours.
According to the Met Office, Storm Goretti will result in strong northwesterly winds in the Isles of Scilly and parts of Cornwall, with peak gusts ranging from 80-100 mph in exposed areas. Wind speeds are expected to escalate quickly with violent gusts persisting for 2-3 hours before subsiding. The yellow warning will remain in place until Friday morning, alongside hazardous coastal conditions due to very large waves.
Residents are advised to stay indoors if possible and secure loose items outside that could pose a danger. The public is urged to avoid road travel during the severe weather conditions, as driving in such circumstances is unsafe. Weather warnings have been issued for snow, wind, rain, and ice, with the potential for disruptions and treacherous travel conditions nationwide.
Met Office chief forecaster Neil Armstrong emphasized the multi-hazard nature of Storm Goretti, highlighting the significant impacts of snow in Wales and the Midlands, along with very strong winds in the far South West. Armstrong also mentioned the risk of heavy rain in parts of Wales and East Anglia causing disruptions. Residents in the warned areas are advised to stay updated with forecasts and local authority communications to ensure safety during the severe weather event.