Storm Goretti has caused widespread disruption across the UK, with hundreds of schools closed, rail services suspended, and flights cancelled. The Met Office has issued fresh yellow warnings for snow and ice covering much of Scotland and northern England, effective from Sunday morning until the afternoon.
In Cornwall, RNLI volunteers responded to seven incidents in 'hurricane strength' winds, described as the worst ever seen. The storm brought 100mph winds, leaving roads blocked by fallen trees and debris. Cornwall Council advised residents to avoid travel as a large number of roads remained closed.
Power outages affected thousands, with National Grid restoring electricity to over 169,000 properties in the south-west, Midlands, and south Wales by Friday noon. Extra engineers were drafted in to assist. The government faced calls to convene the Cobra emergency committee, with Liberal Democrat MP Gideon Amos urging swift action for the south-west.
Scotland’s first minister John Swinney confirmed efforts were turning towards recovery after days of 'intense' snowfall and sub-zero temperatures. In England and Wales, many councils activated the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) to provide shelter for rough sleepers. The Mayor of London activated SWEP for the second time this year.
Tragically, two rough sleepers died in Manchester during the cold spell: Michael Heaton, 26, and Anthony Horn, 47. The storm also damaged the Cornish Pirates rugby club stadium in Penzance, tearing off large sections of the grandstand roof.
