As Storm Goretti approaches, parts of the UK are bracing for further disruption from heavy snow and strong winds. The wintry conditions have already caused chaos, with over 1,000 schools closed across the country on Tuesday and treacherous driving conditions reported.
The Met Office has issued a series of weather warnings, including a yellow warning for ice across most of England, Wales and southern Scotland until Wednesday morning. A similar warning is in place for Northern Ireland until 11am. In northern Scotland, a yellow warning for snow and ice is in effect until midnight on Wednesday, with up to 20cm of fresh snow expected in some areas.
Storm Goretti, named by Météo France, is set to bring strong winds to southwest England from 3pm on Thursday until just before midnight. The Met Office has also issued snow warnings for large parts of England and Wales from 6pm on Thursday until midday on Friday as a deep area of low pressure moves across the south of the UK.
The severe weather has already taken its toll, with several midweek football matches in Scotland cancelled due to the freezing conditions. Police Scotland warned that the impact of the snow is likely to be felt over the next few days in the north and northeast of the country, urging people to follow travel advice.
Aberdeen City Council has declared a major incident as the region deals with heavy snowfall, warning that some rural communities could be cut off and there could be power cuts. The council has brought in additional equipment, including snow blowers, to clear routes, and is expecting a “prolonged period of significant impacts”.
In a show of community spirit, Conservative MP Harriet Cross praised the efforts of more than 100 “heroic” farmers and contractors who have been rescuing stranded travellers, clearing roads and helping to transport supplies in the blizzard conditions.
As the cold snap continues, hundreds of thousands of households around the country are receiving a £25 cold weather payment to help with heating costs. Those living in Cumbria and Northumberland could receive a £50 payout, while the UK Health Security Agency has extended an amber cold health alert for all regions of England until Sunday.
With more severe weather on the way, the public is advised to follow the latest travel advice and take precautions to stay safe during this challenging period.