Council leaders thank residents and responders as Storm Goretti clean-up continues
Cornwall Council is continuing clean-up and recovery work following Storm Goretti, with disruption expected to continue for several days.
Last updated 12th Jan 2026
Council teams have been working around the clock since the storm hit, clearing fallen trees, dealing with safety risks and supporting communities across Cornwall.
While good progress has been made, the scale of the damage means some travel disruption, school closures and service impacts are likely to continue into the week.
Cornwall Council Leader Cllr Leigh Frost thanked council staff, partners and residents for their efforts and patience.
“I want to sincerely thank our council staff and partner agencies who have worked tirelessly, day and night, in extremely challenging conditions to keep people safe and restore access across Cornwall,” he said.
“This is a complex recovery and while progress is being made, disruption will continue for several days. I’d like to thank residents for their continued patience and understanding.”
Highways teams are responding to a very high number of storm-related incidents, particularly in west Cornwall. Main routes and urgent access points are being prioritised, though some smaller roads remain affected.
Cabinet Member for Transport Cllr Dan Rogerson said:
“Our highways teams have done a tremendous job responding to a huge number of incidents in a very short space of time."
“We are continuing to prioritise safety-critical routes, but people should expect travel disruption to continue while this essential work carries on.”
The Council is also prioritising support for vulnerable residents affected by power outages, including those with additional care needs.
Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health Partnerships Cllr Jim McKenna said:
“Our teams are doing extraordinary work to support some of our most vulnerable residents during this prolonged disruption. If anyone is worried about themselves or someone else, please get in touch so we can help.”
Some schools have been unable to reopen due to storm damage or safety concerns, while others have delayed opening to allow checks to take place. Updates on school closures are being shared regularly online.