The Midlands is on high alert for significant disruption as the Met Office warns that heavy snow from Storm Goretti could trigger widespread power cuts across the region. An amber weather warning for snow is in force from 8pm on Thursday until 9am on Friday, with forecasters highlighting dangerous travel conditions and potential loss of essential services.
Full List of Areas at Risk of Disruption
The Met Office has identified a long list of towns and counties where power cuts are considered likely, and mobile phone coverage may also be affected. The areas specified include: Derby, Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Leicester, Northamptonshire, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, Hereford, Herefordshire, Telford, the Wrekin, Staffordshire, Stoke-on-Trent, Shropshire, Shrewsbury, Warwickshire, Coventry, Worcestershire, the West Midlands conurbation, Birmingham, and Solihull.
Furthermore, the warning extends to anywhere within that broad region, meaning other locations like Stratford-upon-Avon, Tamworth, Lichfield, Dudley, Wolverhampton, Droitwich, and Kidderminster are also at risk. The potential for outages is present for the entire duration of the amber alert, from 8pm tonight until 9am tomorrow.
Public Health Advice and Extended Cold Alert
In its warning, the Met Office urged residents to take proactive steps to ensure safety. The forecaster advised people to "help protect vulnerable people that you know including older people, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone", as they may require support with supplies. Residents concerned about health are directed to call NHS 111.
This localised snow warning coincides with a broader national health alert. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued amber cold weather health alerts across the country, which remain in force until Monday, 12 January.
Longer-Term Forecast: A North-South Split
Looking beyond the immediate threat from Storm Goretti, the BBC Weather team indicates a divided forecast for the UK next week. They predict a north-south split, with the southern half of the UK facing unsettled, milder conditions with rain and wind.
In contrast, the northern half, including Scotland, is expected to stay colder than average and drier. The boundary between these air masses presents a continued risk. The BBC notes that "some areas could see further accumulating snow, most likely through central portions of the UK," suggesting the Midlands may not have seen the last of the wintry weather just yet.
