LONDON, January 8 — The UK is bracing for another severe weather system as Storm Goretti is set to arrive this week, prompting new amber warnings for snow and wind. The storm follows a major incident declaration in Scotland and a series of disruptive winter conditions across the country.
What is the forecast for Storm Goretti?
Named by Meteo France, Storm Goretti is expected to move in from the southwest on Thursday. Sky News meteorologist Dr. Christopher England said the exact track remains uncertain, but the most likely scenario involves heavy rain spreading from the southwest, turning to snow from Wales across to East Anglia. The Met Office warns of “significant” snowfalls and “severe gales” around southern coastal areas.
Where are the current weather warnings?
The Met Office has issued amber warnings for snow and wind ahead of the storm. This follows an earlier amber warning for heavy snow across much of Aberdeenshire and northeast Scotland, which prompted Aberdeenshire Council to declare a major incident on Tuesday. Many areas in Aberdeenshire saw up to 30cm (a foot) of snow, with Tomintoul in Moray recording 46cm by Wednesday morning.
How has the cold weather impacted the UK?
The UK is already dealing with significant winter disruptions. Two separate school transport incidents occurred due to icy roads on Wednesday:
- In Chilmington, Ashford, a bus carrying schoolchildren slipped on black ice. No injuries were reported.
- In Reading, Berkshire, a school coach collided with a bus on “very icy” roads, resulting in minor injuries to nine children, the coach driver, and eight adults.
The UK Health Security Agency has extended its amber cold health alert across England until Sunday midday, citing ongoing risks to health services.
What should the public expect next?
Aberdeenshire Council warned of a “prolonged period of significant impacts” from the weather. Thursday is forecast to start cloudy and cold before Storm Goretti’s arrival, bringing a mix of rain, sleet, and snow across northern Scotland and later, more widespread disruptive weather. Residents are advised to monitor travel conditions and official warnings.
FAQ: Storm Goretti and UK weather warnings
Q: What is Storm Goretti?
A: Storm Goretti is arriving from the southwest and is forecast to hit the UK with heavy rain, snow, and powerful winds from Thursday.
Q: Which areas have amber warnings?
A: New amber warnings for snow and wind are in effect. Earlier amber snow warnings covered Aberdeenshire and northeast Scotland, where a major incident was declared.
Q: How much snow has already fallen?
A: Parts of Aberdeenshire saw up to 30cm (12 inches), with Tomintoul in Moray recording 46cm (18 inches) on Wednesday morning.
Q: Has the cold weather caused any incidents?
A: Yes. Two school transport incidents occurred in Kent and Berkshire on Wednesday due to icy roads, resulting in minor injuries in one collision.
Q: Are there health warnings in place?
A: Yes. The UK Health Security Agency’s amber cold health alert for England has been extended until Sunday at midday.
