URGENT UPDATE: An amber severe weather warning has been issued by National Highways for the East Midlands as Storm Goretti is set to unleash heavy snowfall starting Thursday, January 8 at 6 PM and lasting until Friday, January 9 at 9 AM. Motorists are urged to prepare for significant disruptions and hazardous driving conditions.
The warning highlights that the storm will bring heavy snow overnight, initially affecting hills above 200 meters. However, rain on lower routes is expected to transition to snow, creating treacherous conditions across the region. Accumulations could reach between 8 to 12 cm on higher routes, while areas around Birmingham, Leicester, and Nottingham may see 10 to 15 cm of snowfall.
For lower-level routes in southern and eastern East Midlands, 3 to 8 cm of snow is anticipated, with minor amounts—between 0 and 2 cm—forecasted for the far east and north. National Highways warns that the snow will often be slushy in the south and east, with a slow thaw expected through Friday.
Officials caution that routes around Birmingham extending to Leicester and Nottingham will face particularly difficult driving conditions. The A628 Woodhead Pass is scheduled to close in both directions starting at 8 PM on Thursday due to hazardous conditions, blocking the route between A616 Flouch and A57 Hollingworth.
The increase in winter breakdowns on motorways and principal A roads has surged by 21% over the past five years, with over 67,000 incidents logged from December 2024 to February 2025. Icy conditions remain a leading cause of serious winter incidents.
To ensure safety, National Highways encourages drivers to follow the T.R.I.P. safety guidelines: top up on fuel, oil, and screen wash; rest every two hours; inspect tyre tread and pressure; and prepare for changing weather conditions.
The Met Office has also issued amber alerts for snow across both the East and West Midlands, affecting cities including Derby, Leicester, Northampton, and Nottingham. Authorities urge drivers to avoid unnecessary travel but stress that if journeys are essential, consider alternative transportation methods to ensure safety.
“Snowy, wintry weather can cause delays and dangerous driving conditions,” the Met Office stated. They recommend monitoring for potential delays, adjusting travel plans, and allowing extra time for preparation.
Travelers are advised to carry essential items in their vehicles in case of delays, including warm clothing, food, water, a blanket, a torch, an ice scraper/de-icer, a warning triangle, a high-visibility vest, and an in-car phone charger.
As conditions develop, stay updated on the latest weather alerts and road closures to ensure safety during this significant winter storm.
