The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued amber cold health alerts for north-east and north-west England, warning that expected low temperatures could cause a 'rise in deaths' among vulnerable and elderly people. The alerts will be in place from 8pm on Sunday until midday on Monday 5 January.
The agency warned that the cold snap would likely increase healthcare use by vulnerable individuals and lead to a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or those with pre-existing health conditions such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Vulnerable younger people and rough sleepers may also be affected.
Temperatures inside buildings such as hospitals, care homes and clinics are predicted to drop, making it challenging to maintain the recommended indoor temperature of 18C. All other English regions will be under a less serious yellow alert, indicating potential significant impact on health services.
The UKHSA also warned of staffing issues due to travel delays and potential impacts on transport and energy infrastructure. The Met Office forecast cloudy skies, frost and fog, leading to 'tricky travelling conditions' on Monday morning, with temperatures falling to as low as -1C in Penrith and around 0C in parts of the Lake District.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at UKHSA, advised checking on friends, family and neighbours. 'The forecasted temperatures can have a serious impact on the health of some people, leading to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections, particularly for individuals over the age of 65 and those with pre-existing health conditions,' he said.
