THE COUNTY council’s winter team are ready as Storm Goretti threatens heavy snowfall across Worcestershire
According to the forecast, 30cm of snow could fall overnight. The Met Office has issued an amber warning and, with that in mind, Worcestershire’s gritting teams have already mobilised.
A fleet of 35 gritting lorries, fitted with ploughs where required, will be deployed to treat priority one and two routes across Worcestershire, helping to keep key roads as safe and accessible as possible.
‘Committed to keeping things moving’
Coun Karl Perks, Worcestershire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, praised the extensive preparation and commitment of the winter service teams:
He said: “We are always prepared for winter conditions here in Worcestershire, and Storm Goretti is no exception. Our teams have been planning and training for scenarios like this for months, and they are ready to respond as conditions change.
“I want to extend a huge thank you to our drivers, depot staff and operational crews who will be working through the night and in challenging conditions to help keep our road network moving and people safe. Their dedication, particularly during severe weather, cannot be overstated.”
The council’s winter service has been fully prepared since mid-October, with 35 gritters ready for deployment and more than 50 trained drivers on standby.
Throughout the winter season, the team is prepared to cover tens of thousands of miles and will remain on call until mid-April, responding whenever temperatures are forecast to fall below freezing.
Salt stocks currently stand at 79 per cent, equating to approximately 13,000tonnes. Worcestershire County Council begins each winter season fully stocked and continues to actively monitor and replenish supplies as required. Robust supply chain arrangements are in place to ensure reliable salt availability throughout the winter period and beyond.
Residents are urged to take extra care when travelling during severe weather and to check conditions before setting out.
Useful information
In the event of heavy snow, here’s where you can find information for Worcestershire:
For school closures visit: worcestershire.gov.uk/schoolclosures
For emergency road closures visit: worcestershire.gov.uk/roadclosures
For information on gritting, including gritting routes and where to find grit bins: worcestershire.gov.uk/gritting
For advice on how to stay well this winter visit: worcestershire.gov.uk/winter
For keeping warm and well in Worcestershire, go to: worcestershire.gov.uk/council-services/communities/worcestershire-winters-well
