A yellow cold-health alert from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) remains in place for Merseyside this morning, with the warning set to lift at 12pm today, Saturday November 14.
The alert has been in force since Thursday November 12, following a chilly end to the working week. Merseyside is one of only two areas in the UK with an active yellow cold-health alert, the other being the West Midlands, whose alert will also end at 12pm this afternoon.
Health Impacts and Advice
The alert indicates that forecast weather is likely to have minor impacts on health and social services, including an increased use of healthcare services by vulnerable people and a greater risk to life for vulnerable individuals.
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."
"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."
Staying Warm in Colder Temperatures
Dr Gopfert added: "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."
The Met Office has shared advice on staying warm, suggesting homes should be heated to a temperature of at least 18C. This is particularly important for those with reduced mobility, people aged 65 or over, or individuals with health conditions such as heart or lung disease. Room temperatures slightly over 18C could be beneficial for health.
For those under 65 who are active and wearing appropriate clothing, keeping the home at a comfortable temperature even slightly below 18C may be acceptable.
Forecast for the Coming Days
Met Office spokesperson Stephen Dixon said: "The UK is heading towards what will feel like the first cold spell in late autumn, with temperatures likely to drop down towards minus 6C overnight for some in the coming days and a fairly harsh frost likely for some."
He noted the main weather of note is the possibility of snow over higher ground in northern Scotland, adding: "This isn't massively unusual for this time of year but could see a couple of centimetres accumulating over the very highest ground in the north of Scotland."
