Storm Goretti Leaves Tens of Thousands Without Power, Causes Major Travel Disruptions Across UK

London, UK:  Storm Goretti continued to batter the United Kingdom on Friday, leaving nearly 57,000 households without electricity and causing severe disruptions to air, rail, and road travel. The hardest-hit areas include southwest England, particularly Cornwall, and parts of the West Midlands, according to National Grid.

Repair crews worked through the night to restore power, but authorities warned that extreme weather conditions were slowing efforts, Sky News reported.

Airports were heavily affected, with British Airways canceling more than 50 flights at London Heathrow, primarily on short-haul routes. Several regional airports reported delays and temporary runway closures due to heavy snowfall.

Network Rail advised passengers in parts of England and Wales to avoid travel. Train services were severely limited across the Midlands and southwest England, with some routes suspended entirely while tracks and stations were inspected for damage.

Major motorways, including sections of the M1, were closed following snow-related accidents. Authorities worked to clear vehicles and debris, causing long delays for motorists.

The Met Office reported wind gusts of up to 99 mph in the Isles of Scilly, along with heavy snowfall across central England and Wales. Local authorities also reported widespread school closures, particularly in Scotland, due to dangerous travel conditions.

Emergency services across the UK urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel and follow official guidance as the storm continued to disrupt daily life.

Storm Goretti is expected to continue affecting parts of the UK over the weekend, prompting ongoing warnings from the Met Office and local authorities.