Storm Goretti Prompts Safety Warning For Sussex Coastline

Visitors are being urged to stay away from parts of the Sussex coastline as Storm Goretti brings dangerous conditions to the area.

The National Trust has warned against visiting Birling Gap near Eastbourne, with footage showing heavy rain and rough seas battering the iconic cliffs.

The organisation has advised people to keep away from both the cliffs and the beach while the storm passes.

A yellow weather warning for strong winds is in force across coastal areas of Sussex from 3pm on Thursday until 8am on Friday, with gusty conditions expected to create hazardous conditions along the coast.

Weather forecasters are warning that large breaking waves could pose a serious risk, even for those watching from the shore.

People are being advised to take extra care near cliffs, plan routes carefully and keep dogs on leads.

Storm Goretti is the first named storm of the year and is expected to deepen rapidly as it moves across the UK, a process sometimes referred to as a “weather bomb”, which can lead to powerful gusts developing in a short period of time.

While the strongest winds are forecast further west, Sussex is still expected to see strengthening winds through Thursday afternoon, before conditions gradually ease during the early hours of Friday.

Residents are being advised to secure loose items around their homes and to check road conditions and public transport services before travelling, as disruption is possible.

Alongside the stormy weather, an amber cold-health alert remains in place across England until Sunday, with warnings of an increased risk to vulnerable people and added pressure on health services.

People heading out along the Sussex coast are being urged to follow safety advice and avoid exposed areas until conditions improve.