The UK Health Security Agency has activated a yellow cold health alert for parts of the country, with frosty conditions expected to persist over the Christmas period. The warning for south-west England is scheduled to remain active until midday on Friday, 27 December.
Health Risks and Service Impacts
According to the UKHSA, the period of low temperatures is likely to have minor but significant impacts on health and social care services. The agency highlighted an increased use of healthcare services by vulnerable people and a greater risk to life for those in vulnerable groups.
Meteorologist Zoe Hutin from the Met Office confirmed that frost is expected overnight into Boxing Day. She provided a detailed outlook for the coming days, noting a general trend of dry but chilly weather.
Boxing Day and Weekend Forecast
"Boxing Day we're going to see some good spells of sunshine," Ms Hutin said. "While it will still be breezy, it won't be as windy as Christmas Day."
She explained that most areas will stay dry, with some light rain and cloud possible in the South and North West. Top temperatures are predicted to reach only 6-7C (42-45F), feeling closer to 4-5C (39-41F) in the south. The chance of snow is described as very low.
The weather pattern is set to continue through Saturday and Sunday, with similar temperatures and breezy conditions. Some drizzle may occur where cloud cover is thicker.
"It's good news for people who have got the week off and want to go on walks," Ms Hutin added, referring to the predominantly dry conditions.
Coastal Safety Warning After Christmas Day Incident
The cold weather alert coincides with a serious safety warning for beachgoers. Emergency services were called to Budleigh Salterton in Devon at 10.25am on Christmas Day following reports of people in difficulty in the water.
Two men, one in his 60s and one in his 40s, remain missing. Detective Superintendent Hayley Costar of Devon and Cornwall Police issued a direct appeal.
"While there are no official warnings in place for tomorrow, we urge anyone with plans to go swimming in the sea on Boxing Day not to," she stated, noting that several organised swims had already been cancelled due to recent weather warnings.
The combination of ongoing cold weather and the recent tragic event underscores the importance of public caution during the festive period.
