Storm Goretti is set to batter the UK with heavy rain, strong winds, and snow, meteorologists have warned. The Met Office has issued two amber warnings and seven yellow warnings across Britain for Thursday.
Chief forecaster Neil Armstrong described the event as a “multi-hazard situation” likely to cause widespread disruption. Both the Met Office and BBC Weather have labelled Storm Goretti a “weather bomb” as it rapidly develops over the Atlantic.
The storm could impact the UK and France, with Cornwall facing gusts of 80 to 90 mph. Officials warned of large waves, falling debris, and “danger to life” from 8pm on Thursday.
Meanwhile, Wales and the Peak District may see up to 30 cm of snow overnight. A “weather bomb” occurs during explosive cyclogenesis when a storm’s central pressure drops over 24 millibars in 24 hours.
Meteorologist Simon King said Storm Goretti will see a pressure drop of 36 millibars in a single day. This rapid drop can create extremely strong winds capable of toppling trees and damaging structures.
The phenomenon happens as the jet stream accelerates air high in the atmosphere, lowering sea-level pressure. As air converges from surrounding areas, the circulation rotates faster, producing intense winds.
Met Office meteorologist Alex Burkill said Storm Goretti will bring “wet, windy, and wintry weather” to central and southern England. He explained that rain pushing against cold air could generate significant snow on the northern edge.
Amber warnings indicate a higher likelihood of severe weather impacts than yellow warnings. Authorities warned of travel delays, road and rail closures, power cuts, and risks to life and property.
National Highways issued an amber warning for snow in the West and East Midlands from 6pm Thursday to 9am Friday. They advised drivers to plan journeys carefully, particularly between Birmingham, Leicester, and Nottingham.
The A628 Woodhead Pass will close both ways from 8pm Thursday due to dangerous conditions. Network Rail urged passengers to check for travel updates on Thursday night and Friday morning.
Some railway lines in Wales will close from Thursday afternoon, and northern England routes may also be shut as a precaution. Network Rail regional director Jake Kelly said thousands of staff will work to keep services running.
However, he warned that the scale of Storm Goretti could still cause significant disruption.
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