A severe winter storm has paralysed transport networks across the Midlands, causing widespread disruption for commuters and travellers. Storm Goretti dumped heavy snow across the region on Thursday evening, leading to dangerous conditions and forcing the suspension of multiple services.
Widespread Bus Service Suspensions
National Express West Midlands took the decision to suspend all of its bus services until at least 8:30am on Friday, 9th January. The operator cited "difficult road conditions" and persistently low temperatures as the primary reasons for the halt in operations.
In a statement on its website, the company advised passengers: "Due to difficult road conditions and low temperatures, all services are suspended until at least 8.30am. Thank you for bearing with us. Please travel safe."
Similarly, Diamond Bus reported significant problems across Birmingham and Solihull. The company warned that adverse weather was causing delays and cancellations, apologising for the inconvenience while pledging to run the best service possible under the challenging circumstances.
Rail and Metro Networks Grind to a Halt
The disruption extended to the rail network, with West Midlands Railway urging passengers not to attempt to travel until the afternoon of Friday, 9th January. The operator confirmed it was unable to run any services due to extensive infrastructure disruption directly caused by Storm Goretti.
Passengers were advised to check their journeys carefully in the afternoon as teams worked to restore services. The tram network, operated by West Midlands Metro, also faced major issues. A fallen tree blocked the line, meaning trams were unable to operate between Wednesbury Great Western and Edgbaston Village.
Services were only running on a limited route between Wolverhampton Station and Wednesbury Great Western. With both bus and mainline rail services suspended, West Midlands Metro confirmed it was unable to arrange any alternative ticket acceptance for stranded passengers.
Ongoing Impact and Travel Advice
The combined suspension of bus, rail, and tram services created significant travel chaos across the West Midlands during the morning rush hour. The severe weather, characterised by heavy snow and icy roads, made it unsafe for public transport to operate normally.
Authorities and transport operators continue to monitor conditions closely. The key advice for the public remains to avoid all but essential travel, to check for the latest updates from their specific transport provider before setting out, and to prioritise personal safety in the treacherous conditions brought by Storm Goretti.
