The UK is set to be affected by the first named storm of the year on Thursday, following a period of freezing conditions.

Storm Goretti is forecast to bring heavy snow and strong winds to parts of the country, with the Met Office warning that up to 20cm of snow could fall in some areas and that travel disruption is likely.

The Met Office has issued an 18-hour yellow snow warning, in place from 6pm on Thursday (January 8) until midday on Friday (January 9), as a deep area of low pressure moves across southern parts of the UK.

Named by Meteo France, the French equivalent of the Met Office, Storm Goretti is expected to impact northern France most severely, while bringing a mix of rain, snow and strong winds to the UK.

Forecasters say heavy snow is likely to develop over higher ground in south Wales later on Thursday, before rain turns to snow more widely across parts of England and Wales overnight. In some areas, 5–10cm of snow could settle, with up to 20cm possible over higher ground. Strong winds may also lead to drifting snow, the Met Office said. Rain and snow are expected to clear eastwards during Friday.

The weather agency warned conditions could lead to delays on roads, with some vehicles and passengers potentially stranded, as well as cancellations to rail and air services. Rural communities could also become cut off, while power cuts and disruption to mobile phone coverage are possible.

The Met Office said people should be prepared for disruption and take steps to stay safe during wintry conditions. Drivers are advised to plan journeys in advance, check for road closures and delays, and allow extra time for travel. Motorists should ensure their vehicles are winter-ready and carry essentials such as warm clothing, food, water, a blanket, a torch, de-icer and a phone charger.

Residents are also encouraged to prepare for the possibility of power cuts by having torches, batteries and mobile phone power packs to hand.

The Met Office said weather warnings can change quickly and urged people to stay up to date with the latest forecasts.

The yellow warning has been issued due to a low likelihood but medium impact risk of disruption. Areas covered by the warning include parts of England, Wales and the North West, including Cheshire East, as well as large areas of the Midlands, the South West, London and the South East.