Storm Goretti Causes Major Disruptions in France and Britain

Post by : Sean Carter

Storm Goretti wreaked havoc across France and Britain, bringing heavy rain, snowfall, and powerful winds to northern Europe. The storm has resulted in extensive power outages for hundreds of thousands of homes, crippling transport services and shutting down schools across multiple regions.

In France, electricity provider Enedis reported that nearly 380,000 homes experienced power cuts. The regions of Normandy and Brittany were particularly hard hit, with strong winds damaging power lines and other infrastructure. The Manche region recorded some of the highest wind gusts, exceeding 150 kilometers per hour, while Barfleur saw winds reach an astonishing 213 kilometers per hour, highlighting the storm's intensity.

Travel was significantly hindered in France as well. The national rail service halted trains between Paris and Normandy due to safety risks. Fallen trees and debris on tracks, combined with hazardous wind conditions, left numerous passengers stranded or forcing them to reschedule their journeys.

In Britain, the impact of Storm Goretti was equally severe, with the National Grid reporting that around 57,000 households lost power amidst fresh snowfall following a cold snap. The heavy snow and ice created treacherous driving conditions, raising the chances of accidents, and strong winds further compromised power networks.

Scotland and parts of central England were among the areas most heavily affected. Authorities alerted the public that many schools would remain closed for safety reasons. Rail companies cautioned against unnecessary travel, leading to the cancellation or suspension of multiple train services.

Emergency teams and utility workers mobilized across both countries to restore power and clear damaged infrastructure. Weather officials advised residents to stay indoors, limit travel, and adhere to local safety guidelines until conditions improved.

Storm Goretti serves as a stark reminder of the disruptive potential of extreme weather. With widespread power outages, transport services halted, and daily life severely impacted, the storm raises important questions about national readiness and resilience during harsh winter conditions.

Jan. 9, 2026 5:39 p.m. 123

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