Motorists across the West Midlands are facing severe travel disruption this morning after a major snow storm swept through the region overnight. Storm Goretti has blanketed roads, prompting authorities to close key routes and urge drivers to stay at home.
Widespread Disruption and Official Warnings
The region, including Birmingham, woke on Friday, January 9, 2026, to treacherous, snow-covered conditions. The Met Office has an active yellow weather warning for ice and snow in place, cautioning that the storm is likely to bring heavy snow leading to significant disruption and dangerous travelling conditions. National Highways and local councils have advised that travel should only be undertaken if 'absolutely necessary'.
Full List of Road Closures and Issues
A number of major routes have been shut down entirely due to the hazardous weather. Key closures include the A446 Lichfield Road at Canwell, closed in both directions, and the A456 Quinton Expressway northbound. Furthermore, numerous other roads have been described as 'just passable', meaning extreme caution is required.
Major roads currently just passable include:
- A34 Green Lane in Leamore, Walsall.
- Multiple sections of the A38 near Weeford, Sutton Coldfield, and Worcestershire.
- The A435 Hollywood by-pass between Wythall and Maypole.
- A461 Dudley southern by-pass and Lichfield Road sections.
Congestion is also building on other routes, such as the A456 Hagley Road at Wychbury, where traffic is moving slowly due to the snow. Long-term roadworks on the A38 at Streethay are compounding delays in that area.
Some Routes Reopen After Clear-Up
There is a small amount of positive news for drivers, as some roads have been successfully cleared. The A5 at Weeford has now reopened in both directions after snow was cleared between the M6 Toll and Bitterscote Drive. Traffic is easing, though reports indicate roughly 50 vehicles were previously stuck within the closure. The A435 Alcester Road in Redditch has also been cleared, with traffic returning to normal.
The situation remains fluid, and drivers are strongly encouraged to check live traffic updates before considering any journey. With the Met Office warning still in effect, conditions could deteriorate further throughout the day.
