The UK government has activated its national Emergency Alert system for the first time in response to an extreme weather threat, as a rare red warning for potentially lethal winds is imposed on parts of the South West.
Storm Goretti Triggers Most Severe Warning
The Met Office has escalated its alert to the highest possible level ahead of Storm Goretti's arrival. A red weather warning for wind is now in force for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, effective from 16:00 until 23:00 on Thursday, 8th January 2026.
Forecasters warn that gusts could exceed 100mph, posing a severe danger to life. The expected impacts are severe and include:
- Structural damage to buildings and homes.
- Widespread falling trees and power lines.
- Large amounts of flying debris.
- Long-lasting power cuts and disruption to mobile networks.
- Severe travel disruption across the region.
Emergency Alerts Sent to Mobile Phones
In response to the imminent threat, the Cabinet Office has taken the unprecedented step of issuing direct warnings to the public via the Emergency Alert system. A government spokesperson confirmed the action.
The first alert was sent to residents of the Isles of Scilly at approximately 15:00 hrs. A second alert is scheduled for 17:00 hrs for people in Cornwall.
Every compatible mobile phone in the targeted areas will receive a message with safety advice. The alert will sound a loud, siren-like noise and vibrate for about 10 seconds, even if the device is on silent mode.
Government and Emergency Services Mobilise
The Cabinet Office stated that well-rehearsed plans for severe winter weather are now in operation. Response teams from local authorities, the emergency services, and other public bodies are coordinating to manage the anticipated disruption.
Officials urge the public in the warning areas to take the alert extremely seriously, stay indoors if possible, and avoid any non-essential travel during the peak of the storm this evening.
