Storm Goretti prompts rail disruption warnings across Wales and Borders
Rail passengers across Wales and the Borders are being urged to check their journeys on Thursday 8 January and Friday 9 January as Storm Goretti brings snow, ice and strong winds to the region.
Service alterations are already in effect and are expected to continue into Friday. Network Rail and Transport for Wales have warned that further closures may be required as conditions worsen, with safety for passengers and staff the top priority.
A yellow weather warning for snow is in place from 3pm on Thursday until midday on Friday, with up to 20cm of snow forecast in some areas. Strong winds of 40–50mph are also expected, raising the risk of fallen trees, while snow turning to sleet or rain could create localised flooding. Rail infrastructure, including points and signalling equipment, is particularly vulnerable to freezing temperatures and icy conditions. Rail replacement services will not operate during closures due to hazardous road conditions.
Network Rail is taking preventative measures ahead of the storm, including inspecting drainage sites, checking points heating systems, running additional Snow and Ice Treatment Trains and snow ploughs, and deploying chainsaw teams to respond to fallen trees. Transport for Wales staff are preparing platforms, gritting surfaces, and readying trains for icy conditions, while coordinating closely with Network Rail to adapt services as the storm develops.
Passengers are advised to check their journeys before travelling, allow extra time, and take care on potentially slippery platforms, steps and car parks. Tickets for travel on Thursday 8 January can be used up to Sunday 11 January.
Nick Millington, Route Director at Network Rail Wales and Borders, said:
“Storm Goretti is expected to bring challenging conditions from Thursday afternoon and overnight, including snow, ice and strong winds, which can have a significant impact on the railway. While services are expected to run as normal on Thursday morning, from mid-afternoon onwards we anticipate the need to close some lines to keep passengers and our colleagues safe. Safety is our number one priority, and our teams are working around the clock, alongside train operators, to prepare the network and respond quickly as conditions change. We’d urge passengers to check before they travel and plan ahead, particularly on Thursday night and Friday morning.”
Patrick Allinson, Head of Control Operations at Transport for Wales, added:
“We've already seen a lot of snow across our network at the start of this year, and with Storm Goretti forecast to bring further challenging conditions. We are working closely with Network Rail to monitor the situation across the network. We're asking passengers to take extra care when travelling to and from stations, as platforms, steps and car parks may be slippery. Most importantly, passengers should check before travelling for up to date information on rail services and routes.”
Image: Transport for Wales