The West and East Midlands are braced for significant snowfall and hazardous driving conditions after National Highways issued an amber severe weather alert. The warning is in effect from 6pm on Thursday, 8 January, until 9am on Friday, 9 January 2026.
Storm Goretti Brings Heavy Snow Forecast
The traffic authority has warned that Storm Goretti will bring a band of heavy snow overnight from Thursday into Friday. Initially, the higher ground above 200 metres will be most affected, with rain on lower routes expected to turn to snow as temperatures drop.
Accumulations are predicted to vary significantly across the region. The most severe conditions are anticipated on routes around Birmingham, Leicester, and Nottingham, where 10 to 15 cm of snow could settle. On higher routes more broadly, 8 to 12cm is probable.
Major Road Closures and Travel Advice
In response to the forecast, a major road closure has been confirmed. The A628 Woodhead Pass will be shut in both directions from 8pm on Thursday due to the expected snow, closing between the A616 Flouch and A57 Hollingworth.
National Highways has emphasised that routes from Birmingham across to Leicester and Nottingham will see particularly difficult driving conditions. All road users are strongly advised to check ahead, plan for disruptions, and consider whether their journey is essential.
The authority also revealed a concerning trend, noting that winter breakdowns on motorways and major A roads have risen by 21% over the last five years, with over 67,000 incidents in the last winter period alone.
Met Office Alerts and Safety Guidance
The Met Office has also issued its own amber weather warnings for snow, covering a wide area. In the East Midlands, the alert affects Derby, Derbyshire, Leicester, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, and Rutland. The West Midlands warning covers Herefordshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Telford and Wrekin, Warwickshire, the West Midlands Conurbation, and Worcestershire.
Both authorities urge extreme caution. The Met Office stated it is safer not to drive, but for essential journeys, drivers should prepare thoroughly. They recommend packing a winter emergency kit in the car, including:
- Warm clothing, food, water, and a blanket
- A torch and ice scraper or de-icer
- A warning triangle and high-visibility vest
- An in-car phone charger
National Highways promotes its T.R.I.P. winter safety checklist: Top-up fuel, oil, and screenwash; Rest every two hours; Inspect tyre tread and pressure; and Prepare for the conditions.
