The Met Office has issued an amber alert for snow for South and West Yorkshire on Thursday, while a yellow alert has been issued for Greater Manchester
National Highways Yorkshire will close the A628 Woodhead Pass in both directions due to heavy snow being predicted to arrive in the Peak District.
The major road will be closed between the A616 Flouch and A57 Hollingworth from 8pm on Thursday, January 8 due to forecasted heavy snow associated with Storm Goretti and a related amber weather alert in the region.
The Met Office has issued several yellow and amber weather alerts across the United Kingdom as cold weather continues.
A deep area of low pressure will being further snow, strong winds and heavy rain, to the UK, the forecaster said.
“The strongest winds associated with this system are expected to affect the Channel Islands and northern France, hence it has been named Storm Goretti by Météo-France,” the Met Office said.
A period of strong winds is also expected to affect southern England and Wales and is expected to bring snow, with the largest snowfalls most likely to be across Wales and parts of the Midlands. Rain will be an additional hazard, particularly for parts of Wales and eastern England, as the storm moves through the UK.
South and West Yorkshire has been issued an amber alert for snow on Wednesday, while Greater Manchester has been issued a yellow alert.
“Snowy, wintry weather can cause delays and make driving conditions dangerous,” the Met Office said.
“It is safer not to drive in these conditions, but if you need to make an essential journey, consider alternative forms of transport, to keep you and others safe.”
The Met Office said the following tips can be followed to keep you and others safe: plan your route, check for delays and road closures and amend travel plans if necessary. If driving, leave more time to prepare and check your car before setting off.
It is also important to pack essentials in the car in the event of any delays, which include warm clothing, food, water, a blanket, a torch, ice scraper/de-icer, a warning triangle, high visibility vest and an in-car phone charger, the forecaster said.
National Highways said winter breakdowns on motorways and major A roads have risen by 21% over the last five years, with more than 67,000 incidents recorded between December 2024 and February 2025 alone.
The traffic authority said slippery roads due to weather conditions continue to be one of the leading causes of serious incidents each winter and has introduced a “T.R.I.P”. campaign to help drivers be safer on the road this winter.
This campaign encourages road users to: top-up with fuel, oil, screen-wash; rest every two hours; inspect their tyre tread and pressure; and prepare for weather conditions.
“Our teams are working around the clock to prepare the network for adverse weather – ensuring gritters are ready and salt supplies are topped up – and there are steps you can take to prepare yourself too,” National Highways said.
