The NHS has urged people not to leave their homes during certain times of the day as heavy snowfall is expected across the UK this weekend. The Met Office has issued yellow and amber weather warnings, with conditions posing a threat to life in some areas.
The NHS Black Country advised: “Avoid going out early in the morning when frost is thick or late at night when it’s dark.” Herefordshire's Wyre Valley NHS Trust echoed this, urging residents to ensure they have sufficient food and medicine and to reduce draughts in their homes.
Amber warnings for snow and ice are in place for much of the country, including Leeds, Manchester and Nottingham, while most of Scotland could see icier conditions from today. The Met Office warned that temperatures will fall widely below freezing, causing ice to form on untreated surfaces.
Caroline Abrahams, charity director, called on the government to provide a clear financial plan to help older people heat their homes. She said: “The factor which is more likely than any other to encourage older people to run their heating through this cold snap is a clear indication from the Government that more financial help is definitely on the way.”
The snow alerts begin on Saturday and are set to last for five days, with the amber warnings starting on January 4 at 9pm.
