A severe and potentially life-threatening storm has triggered the UK's national emergency alert system, with hundreds of thousands of residents in the southwest told to take immediate action to protect themselves.
'Danger to Life' Warnings Prompt Urgent Alerts
The Met Office issued a rare red weather warning for wind as Storm Goretti barrelled into the UK, with gusts recorded at a peak of 99mph at St Mary’s Airport on the Isles of Scilly. In response, the government's Emergency Alert system was activated, sending loud, siren-like notifications to compatible mobile phones in the affected regions.
The alerts were dispatched in two waves: first to the Isles of Scilly at 3pm on Thursday, followed by Cornwall at 5pm the same day. Devices emitted a piercing sound and vibrated for approximately ten seconds, overriding silent settings, to ensure the message was received.
What the Emergency Message Told Residents
The alert contained critical guidance from authorities, directly instructing people to "stay indoors" due to the extreme conditions. It also advised residents to "consider gathering torches and other essential items" in preparation for potential prolonged disruption.
This marks only the fifth time the nationwide alert system has been used since its launch, underscoring the severity of the threat posed by Storm Goretti. The system is reserved for situations where there is a genuine risk to life and property.
Widespread Disruption and Power Outages
The storm's ferocious winds have already caused significant damage and disruption across southwest England. Energy companies reported that over 25,000 properties were left without power as the storm damaged infrastructure.
While the red warning was focused on the southwest, the Met Office has additional weather warnings in place across other parts of the country. Residents are being urged to stay updated on the latest forecasts and to avoid all non-essential travel in the worst-affected areas until the severe conditions have passed.
