Britain is grappling with severe disruption after Storm Goretti tore across the country overnight, bringing destructive winds, record snowfall, and leaving tens of thousands of homes without power. The Met Office's rare red warning highlighted a 'danger to life' in the South West, with the storm being labelled a 'multi-hazard event'.
Widespread Travel Chaos and Airport Closures
The storm's ferocity has caused major travel chaos across the nation. Birmingham Airport was forced to suspend all runway operations overnight due to heavy snow, with passengers advised to check their flight status as safety inspections continue. Heathrow Airport cancelled dozens of flights, while East Midlands Airport also closed its runway this morning. On the rails, all train services in Cornwall were suspended from 6pm on Thursday, with disruptions expected across England, Wales, and Scotland throughout Friday. National Highways reported the A30 in Cornwall is closed in both directions due to fallen trees.
Power Cuts and Severe Weather Warnings
The National Grid reported significant power outages, with over 43,000 properties without power in the South West at 6am on Friday. A further 14,000 were affected in the West Midlands, with hundreds more in Wales and the East Midlands. The Met Office recorded a gust of 99mph at St Mary's Airport on the Isles of Scilly, a new record for the site. Amber warnings for snow remain across Wales, the Midlands, and northern England, where up to 30cm settled on higher ground. Official figures show 16cm of snow fell in Lake Vyrnwy, Powys, and 8cm in Nottingham.
School Closures and Ongoing Disruption
The storm's impact extends to education, with hundreds of schools closed across the UK. Dozens in the Midlands and Wales will not open due to the amber warning, while over 250 schools in Scotland remain shut, delaying the return from the festive break for many pupils. Almost 100 schools in Cornwall closed early on Thursday ahead of the storm's arrival. Met Office chief forecaster Neil Armstrong stated the storm brought significant impacts from snow and 'very strong winds', with dangerous travelling conditions persisting. People are urged to avoid travel where possible and follow the latest advice from authorities.
