Ice warning as Storm Goretti impact lingers in Wales

Ice warning as Storm Goretti impact lingers in Wales

Wales continues to experience challenging winter weather conditions following the impact of Storm Goretti, which brought significant snowfall and icy conditions across the region. The storm led to school closures, power outages, and widespread travel difficulties. Even as the immediate storm has passed, lingering effects remain a cause for concern, particularly as temperatures cause partially melted snow to freeze again.

Meteorologists have issued a yellow ice warning covering much of Wales until midday Saturday. This alert highlights the dangers posed by refreezing snow, wintry showers, and freezing fog that are expected to persist. As a result, transport disruptions remain ongoing, including delays and cancellations on some rail services, which are anticipated to continue into the weekend.

Power outages affected hundreds of homes on Friday, notably in areas such as Powys, Blaenau Gwent, and Wrexham. At least 150 schools across the region were forced to close due to the hazardous conditions. The exam board WJEC confirmed that because of closures at two schools, 129 students had their Welsh Literature GCSE exam rescheduled to the summer term. Additionally, the Football Association of Wales cancelled all Welsh Premier League matches that were scheduled for Friday evening. They emphasized that all league fixtures must start simultaneously to maintain sporting integrity and reduce the risk of betting manipulation.

Transport for Wales reported that while many railway routes have reopened, some lines remain closed, and services may still be delayed, altered, or cancelled without much notice. Specific disruptions are expected to continue on the Heart of Wales line and along the Shrewsbury to Birmingham route through Saturday. In addition to the snow and ice, Storm Goretti brought a rare occurrence of thundersnow, with lightning flashes captured during intense snowfalls in Crymych, Pembrokeshire. Despite the disruption, many locals embraced the winter weather by building snowmen and enjoying sledging on the snowy hills, making the most out of the wintry conditions across Wales

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