A yellow cold-health alert has been issued for Merseyside and the North West, coming into force on Thursday, November 12 at 9am and lasting until 12pm on Saturday, November 14. The alert, issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), covers the North West and West Midlands, while other regions of England are currently unaffected.
First alert of the winter season
This is the first cold-health alert of the 2026/2027 winter season. Dr Anya Gopfert, Consultant in Public Health at UKHSA, said: "This is the first cold-health alert of the winter, but we can expect more as we move further into the season."
Dr Gopfert added: "Cold weather can have a serious impact on the health of some people, including those aged 65 and over and those with pre-existing health conditions, so it is vital to check in on friends, family and neighbours who are most vulnerable. We’re also reminding people to take simple steps to stay warm and look after their health as temperatures begin to fall. Keeping homes heated where possible and dressing warmly can help people stay safe and well during colder weather."
Understanding the alert system
Under the Weather Health Alerting system introduced by UKHSA and the Met Office, yellow cold-health alerts may be issued during periods of heat or cold which would be unlikely to impact most people but could impact those who are particularly vulnerable.
Residents are advised to check on vulnerable individuals and take precautions to stay warm as the cold snap takes effect across the region.
