Why did UK supermarkets run out of food before Storm Goretti?

Panic buying by residents fearing shortages and access issues during the storm led to depleted shelves.

What were the impacts of Storm Goretti in the UK?

Storm Goretti caused power outages, travel chaos, school closures, and significant snow and ice across the UK.

Where did panic buying occur before Storm Goretti?

Panic buying was reported in areas like Sedgley and Kemnay, with supermarket shelves emptied of essentials.

Home / Weather / Panic Buying Leaves Shelves Bare Before Snow

Panic Buying Leaves Shelves Bare Before Snow

9 Jan

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Summary

Supermarket shelves were emptied by panic buyers before Storm Goretti.
Essential items like fresh produce, bread, and baby milk were depleted.
Severe weather caused widespread power outages and travel disruptions.

Panic Buying Leaves Shelves Bare Before Snow

Residents in Sedgley were met with alarmingly bare supermarket shelves as panic buying surged before the arrival of Storm Goretti. An Asda store in the area saw its fresh vegetables, bread, and meat sections cleared out by shoppers anticipating severe weather.

The storm, accompanied by heavy snow and ice, led to widespread disruptions. Power outages affected tens of thousands of homes across England and Wales, while flights were grounded, roads blocked, and rail services significantly reduced. Amber cold weather health alerts were issued for all of England, warning of a potential rise in deaths.

This wave of pre-storm shopping echoes similar reports from other affected areas, highlighting public anxiety over potential shortages and access disruptions. Meteorologists have issued further yellow warnings for snow and ice, predicting accumulation of up to 30cm in some regions, with flood risks also increasing.