Storm Goretti is set to hit the UK with winds of up to 100mph, triggering an amber Met Office warning, rail cancellations across the South Western Railway network and Channel Islands Airports closure.
Storm Goretti is set to impact the UK later today, with forecasters warning of damaging winds, possible power cuts and communities at risk of being cut off as conditions deteriorate rapidly across coastal and exposed areas.
The Met Office has brought forward an amber wind warning for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, which will now come into effect from 4pm. The agency warned of peak wind gusts of between 80 and 100mph expected this evening, with the potential for significant disruption to transport and infrastructure.
Rail operators have already begun scaling back services. South Western Railway (SWR) said Storm Goretti would bring “adverse weather” across its network today and tomorrow, warning passengers that disruption is likely and advising them to check journeys before travelling.
SWR confirmed that several services will not operate this evening, including:
19:20 Weymouth to London Waterloo
21:35 London Waterloo to Weymouth
22:18 Brockenhurst to Lymington Pier
22:35 London Waterloo to Poole
22:36 Lymington Pier to Brockenhurst
23:32 London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour
23:36 London Waterloo to Bournemouth
The storm is also having an impact beyond the UK. As Storm Goretti moves into the Channel, the French Ministry of the Interior has issued a red weather alert for the Channel region. The “Vigilance Rouge” warning is the highest alert level in France and is reserved for the most severe weather events.
The ministry said violent wind gusts are expected overnight, which could locally reach up to 160km/h (around 99mph), raising the risk of damage, power outages and transport disruption.
In the Channel Islands, Jersey Airport, Guernsey Airport and Alderney Airport will all close temporarily from 6pm as the islands brace for the storm. Guernsey Airport said the decision was taken because winds are forecast to exceed safe operating limits by the evening.
Some inbound and outbound flights will be cancelled from late afternoon as a result, with further disruption expected to early morning services on Friday. Airport authorities said all three airports are expected to reopen tomorrow, with airlines contacting affected passengers to provide guidance on rebooking and alternative travel arrangements.
Authorities across the UK and nearby regions have urged residents to take precautions, avoid unnecessary travel during peak conditions and stay informed as Storm Goretti moves through later today and overnight.
