A major emergency alert was broadcast to hundreds of thousands of mobile phones across southwest England on Thursday as Storm Goretti brought winds of nearly 100mph, posing a 'danger to life'.
What the Emergency Alert Contained
The alerts, issued via the UK's national Emergency Alert system, were sent to residents on the Isles of Scilly at 3pm and across Cornwall at 5pm. Compatible phones emitted a loud, siren-like sound and vibrated for approximately ten seconds, overriding silent settings.
The message displayed clear instructions for public safety, directly advising people to 'stay indoors' and to 'consider gathering torches and other essential items' in preparation for potential disruption. This marked only the fifth time the nationwide alert system has been activated since its launch.
Impact and Disruption from the Storm
The Met Office's rare red warning, its highest level, was triggered by the severity of the storm. Peak wind speeds of 99mph were recorded at St Mary’s Airport on the Isles of Scilly, with the fierce conditions causing widespread damage.
A significant consequence has been power outages, with over 25,000 properties in southwest England reported to be without electricity as the storm battered the region. The combination of extreme winds and flying debris created hazardous conditions, leading to the urgent safety warnings.
Nationwide Weather Warnings in Place
While the red warning was focused on the far southwest, the Met Office has a range of other weather warnings active across the UK due to Storm Goretti. The event underscores the system's role in providing immediate, location-specific warnings during fast-moving and severe weather incidents.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation, urging residents in affected areas to heed the official advice to stay indoors and avoid travel until the severe conditions have passed.
