The Met Office has escalated weather warnings for the UK, issuing a serious amber alert for snow as Storm Goretti approaches the country. Residents are being urged to prepare for significant disruption, with heavy snowfall expected to cause hazardous travel conditions.
Timeline and Expected Impact
The national forecaster has confirmed the amber warning will be active from 8pm on Thursday, January 8, until 9am on Friday, January 9. Experts predict that rain associated with the storm will turn readily to heavy snow on Thursday evening, initially on higher ground before spreading to lower levels overnight.
Substantial accumulations are forecast, with 10 to 15 cm likely across many areas. There is a strong potential for deeper falls of 20 to 30 cm in some locations, particularly on hills above 200 metres in Wales and the Peak District. The Met Office has cautioned that some uncertainty remains over the storm's exact track, which may lead to updates in the warning areas.
Official Travel and Safety Guidance
In light of the severe warning, the Met Office has issued comprehensive advice for the public. For those who must travel, preparations are key. Before setting out, ensure you have warm clothing, food, water, sturdy boots, a torch, and a spade. Always inform someone of your expected arrival time and route.
If driving is unavoidable, motorists are strongly advised to:
- Allow extra stopping distance – it can take ten times longer to stop on icy roads.
- Use the highest gear possible to prevent wheel spin.
- Manoeuvre gently, avoiding harsh braking and acceleration.
- If you skid, ease off the accelerator and avoid braking suddenly.
- If stuck, stay with your vehicle and tie a bright cloth to the aerial.
The public is also warned to be vigilant for black ice, which is often invisible and forms when rain freezes on sub-zero surfaces. Pedestrians should wear several layers to retain body heat and watch for signs of hypothermia.
Before, During, and After the Snow
Preparation should begin immediately. The Met Office suggests checking on vulnerable neighbours and using grit or even cat litter on paths and driveways to improve traction. During the snowfall, the best advice is to avoid travel altogether if possible, waiting for roads to be treated.
After the snow passes, the risk remains. Compacted snow can turn to ice, creating slippery surfaces. The forecaster also highlights the physical strain of clearing snow, which can pose a heart attack risk to vulnerable individuals. Everyone is urged to follow ongoing travel advice from authorities like National Highways as disruption may persist into Friday even after the snow stops falling.
