A 50-year-old man who tragically lost his life during Storm Goretti has been named as James Southey, a kind family man described by loved ones as a "gentle giant". The fatal incident occurred when a tree was felled by gale force winds, striking the caravan where Mr Southey lived on a farm in Mawgan, near Helston, Cornwall.
Tributes Pour In For A "Gentle Giant"
In the wake of the tragedy, heartfelt tributes have been shared online, painting a picture of a much-loved individual. His sister, Sam, led the outpouring of grief, remembering her brother as a person with "a lot of love to share". She fondly described him as a "gentle giant who would do anything for anyone", a sentiment echoed by others in the local community.
The news, first reported by Cornwall Live, has sent shockwaves through the close-knit area. James Southey's death serves as a stark and sombre reminder of the deadly power of severe weather systems as they sweep across the UK.
Details Of The Fatal Incident
The accident happened on Monday, 12 January 2026, as Storm Goretti battered parts of the country with dangerous winds. The force of the storm proved fatal for Mr Southey when a tree was uprooted and fell directly across his static caravan.
Emergency services were called to the scene at the farm in Mawgan, but despite their efforts, the 50-year-old was pronounced dead. The incident highlights the extreme dangers posed by falling trees and debris during periods of intense weather, particularly for those in temporary or mobile accommodations.
A Community In Mourning
The loss of James Southey has left a profound void. The tributes circulating online underscore the deep affection held for him, characterising him not just as a family man, but as a dependable and generous soul. As the community in Mawgan and the wider Helston area comes to terms with the sudden loss, the focus remains on supporting his grieving family and friends.
This tragic event forms part of the wider narrative of disruption and danger caused by Storm Goretti, which brought transport chaos, power cuts, and property damage to numerous regions. However, it is the human cost, exemplified by the death of James Southey, that resonates most powerfully, prompting reflections on safety during severe weather warnings.
