National Highways has issued a strong advisory for drivers in Birmingham to complete their journeys before 6pm on Thursday, January 8, and to avoid traveling thereafter due to a severe amber weather warning issued by the Met Office. The warning covers the East and West Midlands, lasting until 9am on Friday, January 9.
The Met Office predicts significant snowfall, with accumulations of 10-15cm expected around Birmingham, Leicester, and Nottingham. Higher routes could see 8-12cm, while lower-level routes in the southern and eastern parts of the East Midlands may receive between 3-8cm. Some areas in the far east and north of the East Midlands might experience only light snow, around 0-2cm.
National Highways warns that roads near Birmingham, Leicester, and Nottingham will face particularly challenging driving conditions. They advise motorists to exercise extreme caution and avoid travel in these areas if possible during the warning period.
RAC breakdown spokesperson Alice Simpson emphasized the dangers amid plummeting temperatures linked to Storm Goretti: “In severely affected areas, drivers must think carefully about whether it’s safe to drive. Cold weather increases breakdown risks, particularly due to older batteries failing more frequently. It’s important to clear all snow and ice from your vehicle before setting off and to reduce speeds to match road conditions.”
Neil Armstrong, chief forecaster at the Met Office, described Storm Goretti as a “multi-hazard event” impacting Wales and the Midlands. He added, “Snowfall on the storm’s northern edge will bring widespread accumulations of 5-10cm, with some areas, especially higher elevations, seeing 15-25cm—possibly up to 30cm locally.”
Both the Met Office and National Highways stress that travel delays and disruptions are highly likely on Thursday night into Friday morning. Drivers are urged to monitor conditions and allow extra time if travel is unavoidable.