A rare red weather warning has been issued for Cornwall as Storm Goretti is forecast to bring extreme winds to the county.
Forecasters have warned that western parts of Cornwall could experience gusts exceeding 100mph on Thursday afternoon, with conditions described as dangerous and potentially life threatening.
The Met Office had earlier placed a large area from the Isles of Scilly to Bude under an amber weather warning between 4pm and 11pm. This has since been escalated to a red weather warning for parts of the county, indicating a high likelihood of severe impacts.
According to the Met Office, the storm will deliver exceptionally strong northwesterly winds during the evening. Gusts of between 80 and 100mph or more are expected in exposed locations across the Isles of Scilly and parts of Cornwall.
The forecaster said: “Storm Goretti will bring a period of exceptionally strong northwesterly winds to the Isles of Scilly and parts of Cornwall on Thursday evening, with peak gusts of 80-100 mph or more in exposed areas.
“Winds are expected to increase rapidly from 30-40 mph with violent gusts that may persist for 2-3 hours before easing. Winds will remain strong with the broader yellow warning in force until Friday morning.
“In addition, very large waves will bring dangerous conditions to some coastal areas.”
Cornwall Council has advised schools to close at 2pm in advance of the worsening weather conditions.
In a statement, the council said: “With Storm Goretti approaching, an amber weather warning is in place for dangerous winds across west Cornwall.
“Significant disruption is likely, with debris and flooding expected to affect many roads. Please avoid travelling unless your journey is essential, and take extra care if you do need to go out.
“Exposed coastal areas will be particularly dangerous overnight and into Friday due to large waves and strong winds, so please stay away. Do not take risks, but if you see someone in trouble along the coast, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
“If you live in a flood-risk area, please take steps now to protect your property.”
The red weather warning in Cornwall is one of the most severe alerts issued by the Met Office and highlights the potential for widespread disruption, damage and danger to life as Storm Goretti passes through the region.
