The Met Office has escalated its weather warnings to the highest possible level, issuing a severe red alert for parts of the UK as Storm Goretti threatens to unleash winds of up to 100 miles per hour. Forecasters have warned the public to stay indoors due to the significant risk to life.
Immediate Danger from 'Exceptionally Strong' Winds
A red weather warning is now in force for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, effective until midnight on Thursday, January 8, 2026. The Met Office states the region will be hit by "exceptionally strong northwesterly winds" associated with Storm Goretti. In the most exposed coastal spots, gusts could peak between 80 and 100 mph.
The forecaster warned that winds would increase rapidly, reaching violent levels that may persist for two to three hours before easing. A broader yellow warning for strong winds remains active across wider areas until Friday morning.
Multi-Hazard Event Brings Snow and Disruption
Met Office Chief Forecaster, Neil Armstrong, has classified Storm Goretti as a "multi-hazard event." While the far South West bears the brunt of the wind, other parts of the country face severe disruption from heavy snow and rain.
Accumulations of 10-15cm of snow are expected widely across Wales and the Midlands, with 20-30cm possible on higher ground in Wales and the Peak District. East Anglia and parts of Wales are also braced for potentially disruptive heavy rainfall.
Public Urged to Take Immediate Action
The Met Office warning outlines severe risks to the public and property. People have been advised to expect significant damage, including roofs being blown off and power lines brought down. Flying debris presents a major danger to life.
Travel is expected to be severely disrupted, with road closures, railway line suspensions, and widespread power cuts likely. The warning states clearly: "It is not safe to drive in these conditions."
Residents are urged to take the following precautions immediately:
- Stay indoors if at all possible.
- Avoid all non-essential travel by road.
- Secure any loose items outside homes, such as bins, garden furniture, trampolines, and sheds.
- Monitor the latest forecasts and heed advice from local authorities.
Coastal communities are also warned of dangerous conditions from very large waves on top of the extreme winds. The public is strongly advised to keep up to date with official updates as this complex and severe weather system unfolds.
