UK Faces Life-Threatening Storm Goretti: 100mph Winds and Heavy Snow Until Friday- Parts of Cornwall are under a red warning for strong winds as Storm Goretti, the UK’s first named storm of 2026, is set to hit with a “weather bomb” bringing heavy snowfall and gusts up to 100mph.
The Met Office reports that the storm is undergoing an explosive deepening phase of cyclogenesis, with a rapid drop in pressure creating extremely strong winds across the South West. The warning is in effect from 4pm to 11pm on Thursday and covers almost all of Cornwall, including the Isles of Scilly, except for southeastern areas such as Launceston, Liskeard, and Looe.
The Met Office highlights the risks associated with high winds:
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Flying debris may cause injuries or pose a danger to life.
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Buildings could sustain damage, including tiles being blown off roofs.
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Travel delays and cancellations are likely on roads, rail, air, and ferry services.
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Some roads and bridges may be closed.
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Power outages are possible, which could disrupt mobile networks and other essential services.
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Coastal areas face the danger of large waves and debris being thrown onto roads, sea fronts, and properties.
Meanwhile, up to 30cm of snow is expected in the Midlands, with winds potentially reaching 100mph in exposed areas, creating a serious risk to life in parts of the country. The storm is expected to ease by Friday, but forecasters warn it may surpass both Storm Ciarán and the Great Storm of 1987 in severity.
Met Office meteorologist Alex Burkill said the storm will bring “wet, windy, and wintry weather” across the UK. As rain interacts with cold air in northern areas, significant snow is likely from Thursday evening into Friday.
Amber weather warnings have also been issued, signaling a higher likelihood of impacts than yellow warnings. These include travel disruptions, road and rail closures, power cuts, and risks to life and property.
Storm Goretti qualifies as a “weather bomb,” or explosive cyclogenesis, which occurs when low-pressure systems see their central pressure drop by 24 millibars within 24 hours, intensifying the storm dramatically. Met Office chief forecaster Neil Armstrong described it as a “multi-hazard event”, combining heavy rain, snow, and strong winds.
Travel Disruptions Expected
Snowfall and high winds are likely to disrupt transport across affected regions.
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Network Rail has announced the suspension of all trains in Cornwall from 6pm on Thursday. In Devon, services on the Exeter-Okehampton and Exeter-Barnstaple routes will also be suspended from the same time. Passengers are urged to travel earlier and avoid late journeys, and to check for updates before setting out. Disruptions are expected to continue into Friday morning.
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Some railway lines in Wales and parts of north-west England may also be closed as a precaution. Jake Kelly, Network Rail’s regional director, said staff will do everything possible to keep services running, but disruption is likely due to the storm’s scale. Replacement road transport will not be available due to severe conditions.
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National Highways has issued an amber warning for snow in the West and East Midlands, active from 6pm Thursday to 9am Friday. Routes around Birmingham, Leicester, and Nottingham could see extremely difficult driving conditions, with considerable delays.
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Drivers should note that the A628 Woodhead Pass will be closed in both directions between the A616 at Flouch and the A57 at Hollingworth from 8pm Thursday due to dangerous weather.
