Blizzard‑Driven Chaos Sweeps Europe as Storm Goretti Deepens Disruption

Summary

Arctic Storm Goretti has unleashed severe winter conditions across large parts of Europe, triggering widespread travel disruption, power outages, and safety warnings from national weather agencies. The storm, which intensified as it moved from the Atlantic into the continent, has brought heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, and gale‑force winds that continue to affect daily life across multiple countries.

France: Motorways Closed, Flights Cancelled, Widespread Disruption

France has been among the hardest‑hit nations, with intense snow and ice forcing the closure of major motorways and severely affecting transport networks. Authorities recorded hundreds of flight cancellations at Paris’ Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports as ground crews struggled to keep runways clear of ice and snow.
Traffic congestion stretched for hundreds of miles across the Île‑de‑France region, while speed restrictions and bans on heavy vehicles were introduced to reduce accident risks. Weather alerts remain in place across much of northern France as conditions continue to deteriorate.

Netherlands: Thousands Stranded at Schiphol Airport

Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport has faced days of severe disruption, with more than a thousand passengers forced to sleep on camp beds after hundreds of flights were cancelled due to persistent snowfall and freezing temperatures.
Airlines have warned of further delays as de‑icing supplies run low and weather conditions remain unstable.

United Kingdom: Warnings Issued as Cold Snap Intensifies

Britain is also experiencing significant impacts from Storm Goretti. The Met Office has issued widespread cold weather and ice warnings across England, Wales, and Scotland, cautioning travellers about hazardous road conditions and potential transport delays.
Some regions are bracing for additional snowfall as Arctic air continues to sweep south, with authorities urging the public to avoid unnecessary travel.

Regional Impact and Ongoing Concerns

Across Europe, emergency services are responding to weather‑related incidents, including road accidents, power outages, and stranded travellers. Meteorologists warn that the combination of Arctic air and storm‑driven winds may prolong the disruption into the coming days.

Authorities in all affected countries continue to advise residents to monitor official weather updates, take precautions during travel, and check on vulnerable individuals as temperatures remain dangerously low.