Well, we are officially getting our first named storm of the year here in Edinburgh – Storm Goretti. Starting from tonight, Scotland has been issued with a Yellow Weather Warning for Snow and Ice, which could cause further disruption across the country. Météo France, the French meteorological service, has named the storm this time.
Yellow Weather Warnings for Snow and Ice for Storm Goretti
A Yellow Weather Warning for Snow and Ice has been issued for Scotland starting from 10pm tonight (January 7), and lasting until 12pm tomorrow (January 8). Those living in the affected areas are advised to stay safe by planning ahead of travelling, and take extra care when walking outside.
Met Office Chief Forecaster Jason Kelly said: “A further spell of snow is expected to move east across central and northern Scotland today. Amber warnings are in place until 7pm this evening.
“Elsewhere, snow showers will be mixed with rain and sleet, and it will be another very cold day, with strengthening winds too.
“Overnight, cold air pushes back in with temperatures widely dipping below freezing again. This means there is the risk of further ice overnight and a new yellow weather warning for ice covers the majority of the UK until Wednesday morning.”
Will it snow in Edinburgh?
It is unlikely that Glasgow will actually see any snow, as the chance for snow or rain is low. However, there is a 36% chance of light snow between 1am and 2am tonight (January 8).
Regions and local authorities affected:
Central, Tayside & Fife
Grampian
Highlands & Eilean Siar
North East England
North West England
Orkney & Shetland
SW Scotland, Lothian Borders
Strathclyde
Weather warnings for England and Wales
What is more, the South West of England and Wales have also been issued both Amber and Yellow Weather Warnings for Snow and Ice.
Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Chris Bulmer said: “A deepening area of low pressure – named Storm Goretti by Meteo France – will move across the south of the UK during Thursday and into Friday. It will clash with the very cold air here, meaning Thursday night could be what we call a ‘multi-hazard’ event, with snow on the northern flank of the low, wind and rain on the southern flank.
“We have therefore issued a yellow warning for snow for parts of England and Wales, where heavy snow could lead to disruption and difficult travelling conditions. Strong winds associated with Storm Goretti may also lead to some disruption, and so, in addition, a yellow wind warning has been issued for southwest England.
“The exact track of the low is still uncertain, and these warnings are likely to be amended – and potentially escalated – over the coming days. It is therefore vital people keep up-to-date with the latest forecasts.”
To find out how to stay during weather warnings for snow and ice, head here.