Storm Goretti is poised to unleash significant disruption across Somerset with two weather warnings issued for strong winds and heavy snow, coming into effect tomorrow and lasting into Friday.
The Met Office has announced a double warning starting Thursday afternoon, January 8. The first warning for powerful winds begins at 3 pm and extends through the night. These winds pose a “danger to life” due to the risk of flying debris, large waves, and material being thrown onto sea fronts, causing potential property damage and hazardous conditions.
Peak gusts of 50-60 mph are expected widely, with exposed coastal and hill areas experiencing even stronger blasts of 60-70 mph. Particularly strong winds, possibly up to 80-90 mph, could hit the Isles of Scilly and parts of Cornwall, depending on the storm’s path. Winds will ease gradually early Friday morning.
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Following this, a separate snow warning goes into effect from 5 pm Thursday until midday Friday. Heavy snowfall is anticipated across Somerset, Bristol, Gloucestershire, and surrounding regions. Snow will initially accumulate on hills, spreading to lower elevations overnight, with common accumulations of 5-10 cm and up to 15-25 cm in some hilly areas above 200 meters. High grounds in Wales and the Peak District could see snow depths reaching 30 cm.
The weather system is expected to cause travel delays, potential road closures, and isolation of some rural communities due to heavy snow and icy conditions. A mix of rain, sleet, and snow is likely through Friday, varying greatly depending on elevation and precipitation intensity.
Residents of Taunton, Chard, Yeovil, Bath, Wells, Bristol, Dorset, and nearby areas should exercise extreme caution, reconsider non-essential travel, and prepare for possible interruptions to services and power.