The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has activated serious amber-level cold health alerts for two regions of England, placing millions of people, particularly the elderly and vulnerable, at heightened risk.
Regions Under Alert and Key Dates
Officials have issued the amber alerts for the North East and North West of England. These warnings are now in force and are scheduled to remain active until 12pm on Friday, 5 January 2025.
All other regions in England are currently under a less severe yellow cold health alert, which also runs until the same time and date. The warnings come as the Met Office forecasts temperatures hovering around freezing for much of the UK, with cold nights and frost expected, especially in northern areas.
Who is Most at Risk?
The UKHSA has emphasised that the forecasted low temperatures pose a serious threat to health, especially for people aged 65 and over and those with pre-existing health conditions. The agency has also indicated that some younger adults in vulnerable groups could be affected.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at the UKHSA, urged the public to take the warnings seriously. "The forecasted temperatures can have a serious impact on the health of some people, particularly for individuals over the age of 65 and those with pre-existing conditions," he stated. He strongly advised people to check on friends, family, and neighbours who may be at risk during the cold spell.
Impact on Services and Public Advice
The health body warned that the cold conditions are likely to lead to increased pressure on the NHS and social care. More people may need to use healthcare services, and there is a risk that temperatures in hospitals, care homes, and clinics could fall below the recommended 18°C needed for safe clinical assessments.
Furthermore, the challenging conditions may disrupt delivery services and pose difficulties for key workers. The public is advised to keep indoor temperatures at a minimum of 18°C where possible and to look out for those who may struggle to keep warm.
Looking ahead, the Met Office's long-range forecast for early January suggests the cold weather will persist, with a chance of rain, sleet, and snow moving south. While slightly milder conditions may attempt to move in from the west later in the period, frost and fog are expected to remain common hazards.
