Amber wind warning extended as Cornwall braces for Storm Goretti

The Met Office has extended the amber weather warning for wind as Cornwall prepares for the arrival of Storm Goretti.

The amber warning is now in force from 4pm until 11pm tonight, with forecasters increasing the expected impact after fresh data showed the potential for stronger and more widespread gusts. The warning area has also been expanded further east, covering much of Cornwall’s north coast, including Newquay.

Storm Goretti is expected to bring a short but extremely intense spell of north-westerly winds to Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly this evening. Gusts of 80 to 100 miles per hour or more are possible in exposed coastal areas and on higher ground, with winds forecast to strengthen rapidly over a short period.

Kernow Weather Team (KWT) say the most severe conditions are likely to last between two and four hours, before gradually easing later tonight. However, strong and gusty winds are expected to continue beyond the peak, with a wider yellow warning remaining in place until Friday morning.

Marine and coastal conditions are also expected to deteriorate quickly. Seas are forecast to become very rough or high, producing large and powerful waves that could throw spray and shingle onto roads and promenades. Authorities are warning of hazardous conditions near cliff edges and along exposed seafronts, with a serious risk to life.

Although conditions may currently appear relatively calm, KWT say rapidly falling air pressure is a clear sign that the weather will change quickly over the next few hours.

People are being urged to secure loose items, avoid unnecessary travel during the worst of the winds, and stay well away from coastal edges and promenades. There is also a possibility of power cuts and wider disruption as the storm passes through.