The Met Office has taken the rare step of issuing a power cut alert for 31 specific areas across the United Kingdom, as a major winter storm threatens to blanket large swathes of the country in heavy, disruptive snow.
Amber Warnings Signal Severe Disruption
Forecasters have raised the alarm with amber-level weather warnings, indicating a significant risk to life and property. One critical alert for Yorkshire and the Humber is scheduled to come into force from 8pm on Thursday, January 8, 2026, lasting into Friday.
This warning zone extends from Sheffield in the north down to Leicester, encompasses most of the West Midlands, and reaches into Wales. Separate warnings for wind and snow also cover the southwest of England, including Cornwall.
Storm Goretti's Icy Grip
The incoming severe weather is associated with Storm Goretti. On Thursday, rain is expected to turn rapidly to heavy snow, initially on higher ground before reaching lower levels overnight. The snow is forecast to ease by Friday morning, potentially turning to sleet or rain, but disruption is likely to persist.
The Met Office warns of widespread accumulations of 10-15cm, with the potential for 20-30cm in some locations, particularly on hills above 200 metres in Wales and the Peak District. The exact track of the storm remains uncertain, meaning warnings could be updated.
Widespread Impact Expected
The consequences of the snowfall are predicted to be severe. Forecasters have warned of a "danger to life" from large waves and debris on coastal roads in Cornwall and the Scilly Isles from 5pm to 11pm on Thursday.
Beyond the immediate safety concerns, the storm is expected to cause major travel disruption. Trains and planes face likely delays and cancellations, while rural communities could be cut off entirely. The alert specifically highlights the probability of power cuts and mobile phone signal disruption across the affected regions.
The full list of regions and local authorities under the Met Office power cut alert includes:
- East Midlands: Derby, Derbyshire, Leicester, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, Rutland.
- South West England: Gloucestershire.
- Wales: Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Conwy, Denbighshire, Gwynedd, Merthyr Tydfil, Monmouthshire, Powys, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Torfaen, Wrexham.
- West Midlands: Herefordshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Telford and Wrekin, Warwickshire, West Midlands Conurbation, Worcestershire.
- Yorkshire & Humber: South Yorkshire, West Yorkshire.
Residents in these areas are urged to prepare for potential isolation, check on vulnerable neighbours, and stay updated with the latest forecasts and travel advice from official sources.
