The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a cold-health alert for Greater Manchester, warning of a "risk to life" as temperatures are forecast to drop to -1C. It is the first warning of its kind this winter.
The alert, issued in collaboration with the Met Office, will be in effect from 9am on Thursday, November 12, until 12pm on Saturday, November 14, covering Greater Manchester and the rest of north west England.
Yellow Alert for North West and West Midlands
The yellow cold-health alert has been issued for the north west and West Midlands regions, while other parts of England are currently unaffected. According to the UKHSA, the weather forecast is likely to have minor impacts on health and social care services, including increased use of healthcare services by vulnerable people and a greater risk to life for those who are vulnerable.
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."
Advice for Vulnerable Groups
Cold weather can seriously affect the health of some people, including those aged 65 and over and those with pre-existing health conditions. The UKHSA advises checking in on friends, family and neighbours who are most vulnerable.
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."
Under the alerting system introduced by UKHSA and the Met Office, yellow cold-health alerts may be issued during periods of heat or cold that are unlikely to affect most people but could impact those who are particularly vulnerable. Low temperatures can lead to increased use of healthcare services by vulnerable people and an increased risk to health for individuals aged 65 and over, those with pre-existing conditions, and some other vulnerable groups, such as those sleeping rough.
UKHSA has published guidance for professionals protecting vulnerable people and for the public on staying safe during cold weather, including keeping homes warm and keeping an eye on those who are vulnerable.
