Thousands of homes are facing power outages as Storm Goretti batters the UK, prompting a rare red warning for potentially hazardous and stormy winds.
The Met Office has raised concerns about “violent gusts” expected to impact Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly shortly, posing a threat to life. Record-breaking wind speeds of 99mph have been registered at St Mary’s Airport in the Isles of Scilly.
In the South West, over 47,000 properties were left without electricity by 9pm, with additional outages reported in the West Midlands and Wales. National Grid emphasized the resilience of the power network but acknowledged that severe weather conditions could lead to disruptions.
National Grid’s field operations director, Roisin Quinn, assured that preparations were in place to swiftly address Storm Goretti’s aftermath. The company’s control center is on high alert, with increased staff to handle any issues efficiently.
Cornwall Council is advising residents to remain indoors due to the dangerous weather conditions, urging people to prioritize safety to avoid potential risks associated with fallen trees and blocked roads.
The red warning, effective until 11pm, warns of potential property damage, large waves, flying debris, power cuts, and disruptions in public transport. The Met Office stressed the importance of taking necessary precautions to protect against the severe impact of the storm.
School closures and train suspensions have been implemented in anticipation of the storm’s severity. Passengers are advised to adjust their travel plans accordingly, as disruptions are expected to persist into the following day due to the storm’s diverse impacts.
Storm Goretti, named by Meteo France, is anticipated to bring significant snowfall and strong winds to various regions in the UK. Weather warnings have been issued nationwide to alert the public to the expected disruptions and challenging travel conditions.
Met Office chief forecaster Neil Armstrong highlighted the multi-hazard nature of Storm Goretti, emphasizing the potential for snow-related disruptions in some areas and the impact of powerful winds in the South West.