Story Highlight
– Major snowstorm Storm Goretti set to hit Britain Thursday.
– Hundreds of schools closed; travel chaos reported nationwide.
– Wind gusts could reach 70mph, heavy snow expected.
– UK Health Security Agency warns of rising deaths.
– MP calls for military aid for cut-off communities.
Full Story
A significant winter snowstorm is poised to impact the UK beginning on Thursday, as the country grapples with its most severe cold outbreak this season. In a stark reflection of the adverse conditions, numerous schools have remained closed, and widespread disruptions have occurred across roads, railways, and airports. Health officials have issued alarming warnings in light of the freezing temperatures and weather-related incidents.
The Met Office has confirmed that Storm Goretti, named by Météo-France, will unleash extensive snowfall, heavy rain, and strong winds across England and Wales through Thursday and Friday. Yellow warnings for snow and wind have been activated in several regions, including South West England, the Midlands, and Wales. On coastal areas in Devon and Cornwall, wind speeds could reach a daunting 70 mph, while higher elevations across England and Wales may see accumulations of up to 20 cm (approximately 8 inches) of snow.
In conjunction with the impending storm, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has extended its amber cold weather alerts for England until Sunday, highlighting an increase in health risks associated with extreme cold and rising mortality rates. The lowest recorded temperature overnight dropped to -12.5°C (13.8°F) in Marham, Norfolk, while cities such as London, Birmingham, Bournemouth, and Southampton experienced lows around -8°C (18°F).
Scotland has borne the brunt of the snowfall, with Tomintoul in Banffshire reporting an impressive 52 cm (1 ft 8 in) of thick snow. The situation prompted closures at approximately 775 schools nationwide, with notable numbers including 183 in Northern Ireland, 159 in Aberdeenshire, and 104 in Carmarthenshire.
This morning, commuters faced substantial challenges as weather conditions disrupted travel plans across road, air, and rail networks. Heavy snow has obstructed some train lines, leading to significant cancellations and service disruptions. Eurostar services from London to Rotterdam and Amsterdam were suspended, with trains only reaching Brussels. LNER advised passengers on routes between London King’s Cross and Edinburgh to postpone their travel, while similar warnings were issued for journeys between Edinburgh and Aberdeen due to the severe snowfall.
Local services were similarly affected, with Great Northern reporting problems due to frozen points in Norfolk, preventing trains from running. Merseyrail’s Wirral services and other local routes around West London faced disruptions as well.
Transport for London reported partial suspensions on the Northern line and complete halts on the Piccadilly line due to various faults. Additionally, ScotRail faced issues on routes across northern Scotland, particularly between Inverness and Aberdeen due to the weather conditions. In Glasgow, subway services were temporarily halted after ice caused a power failure.
Air travel has not escaped the repercussions. Five flights from Aberdeen Airport were cancelled, including multiple KLM flights and an easyJet service to Gatwick, further compounding travel woes.
The severe weather’s impact on public safety was underscored by a recent incident in Epping Forest, Essex, where a passer-by fell through the ice while attempting to rescue a dog that had fallen into a frozen lake. Both the rescuer and a subsequent would-be saviour ended up in the freezing water. Fortunately, video footage captured their struggle and eventual safety, with paramedics attending to one individual at Whipps Cross Hospital. Witness Ozgur Ontas, who filmed the rescue, noted the ongoing danger posed to dog walkers in these conditions.
In light of the extreme weather, the Essex Fire and Rescue Service has implored the public to refrain from entering frozen bodies of water, advocating instead for emergency calls to trained professionals.
Meteorologists predict that the disruptive weather is not over, as Storm Goretti, influenced by an Atlantic pressure system, could bring additional snow and rain to southern England in the days ahead. Aidan McGivern from the Met Office detailed that depending on the storm’s trajectory, central England may see snowfall accompanied by strong winds, while northern regions might experience a mix of rain and further snow.
Amber and yellow warnings remain in effect across various parts of Scotland and northern England, indicating potential disruption and advising the public to take necessary precautions. While yellow warnings signal a chance for some travel delays, amber warnings suggest more severe weather could lead to power outages and heightened risks to safety.
Temperatures across the UK have plummeted, with instances of -10.9°C recorded in Cumbria overnight and multiple locations facing similarly harsh lows. Additional support for vulnerable households is being facilitated through £25 cold weather payments, targeted at those most in need as they contend with the heating challenges of such frigid conditions.
The Alzheimer’s Society has also urged individuals to check on family members and neighbours living with dementia, stressing the importance of ensuring warmth and additional care during these cold months. Expert advice encourages dressing in layers, maintaining warmth in living spaces, and remaining vigilant against slippery surfaces.
In a response to the escalating situation, Andrew Bowie, a Member of Parliament, has called for military assistance to deliver essential supplies to impacted communities in Scotland, where individuals have found themselves isolated amid the severe weather. Highlighting the urgent need for action, Bowie has addressed both the Scottish Government and UK Government in his plea for support.
Police Scotland has cautioned the public about potentially hazardous driving conditions due to ongoing snowfall. As authorities convene with local councils and utility companies to coordinate recovery efforts, they emphasize the importance of preparation and public safety.
Scottish officials, including First Minister John Swinney, have acknowledged the significant challenges posed by the weather and the ongoing efforts to restore normalcy within transport and public services. Despite persisting disruptions, they have praised the remarkable contributions of local communities and volunteers in addressing the crisis.
As the UK braces itself for further snowfall, residents are reminded to stay informed about weather warnings and to look out for one another during this challenging time.
Our Thoughts
The incidents described in the article highlight several areas for improvement in health and safety regarding severe winter weather conditions. Key lessons include enhancing public awareness around the dangers of frozen lakes and the appropriate actions to take during emergencies. The advice from Essex Fire and Rescue Service to avoid entering the water and instead call for assistance is crucial and should be widely disseminated to prevent similar rescue situations.
In terms of regulations, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 emphasizes the duty of care to ensure the safety of individuals in public spaces. Local authorities could be more proactive in providing clear signage and information about hazardous conditions, such as thin ice on lakes, which can help prevent accidents. Implementing regular safety audits and emergency preparedness training for community responders can also enhance readiness for such weather events.
To mitigate disruptions caused by severe weather on transport and emergency services, better contingency planning and resource allocation, such as mobilizing local support and maintaining effective communication, are essential. Ensuring that those vulnerable to extreme weather, such as the elderly or those with health conditions, receive targeted support would further align with creating a safer environment.
