The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has escalated its warnings, issuing an amber cold health alert for northern England as the country prepares for a severe bout of wintry weather. This significant alert, indicating an increased risk to vulnerable individuals, is active from noon on Monday until 8am on Saturday.
Widespread Weather Warnings
Concurrently, the Met Office has activated a series of its own yellow weather warnings for snow and ice. These alerts cover parts of Scotland and northern England and are scheduled to remain in effect from Monday through to Thursday. Forecasters are predicting overnight temperatures could plummet to a biting -10°C in some areas, with widespread disruptions to transport networks anticipated.
The amber health alert specifically targets the North-East, North-West, and Yorkshire and the Humber. It highlights a substantial increase in risk to health for people aged over 65 and those with pre-existing conditions such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
Met Office Forecast and Travel Disruption
Paul Gundersen, the Met Office's Chief Forecaster, provided a detailed outlook. He warned that scattered showers moving into north-east and northern Scotland carry a significant risk of creating icy conditions on roads and pavements. "An area of rain will reach the west of Scotland early on Tuesday morning, with a risk of this turning to snow as it moves inland," Gundersen stated.
He further cautioned that this snow could lead to travel disruption, particularly across the higher parts of Scotland. By Wednesday, a "strong and very cold northerly flow" is expected to set in, making the already low temperatures feel even more severe.
Adding to the concerning forecast, Deputy Chief Forecaster Tom Crabtree indicated potential for substantial snow accumulation. He predicted 2-5cm of snow in low-lying areas, with 5-10cm possible in higher areas. In some parts of north-east England and Scotland, accumulations could reach a significant 15-20cm.
Health Advice for the Vulnerable
In light of the severe weather, health experts are urging the public, especially older and vulnerable people, to take precautions. Ruth Goss, a Senior Cardiac Nurse at the British Heart Foundation (BHF), emphasised the particular danger the cold poses to those with heart conditions.
The BHF has issued clear guidance for those at risk, which includes people over 65 and anyone with cardiovascular disease. Their key recommendations are to:
- Keep indoor temperatures to at least 18°C.
- Wear multiple layers of warm clothing to trap body heat.
- Stay active indoors to maintain circulation.
- For those with angina, wrap a scarf loosely around the mouth and nose to warm the air before breathing.
- Eat regular warm meals and drink plenty of healthy hot drinks.
Ms. Goss also stressed the importance of those eligible getting their free flu jab to ensure they are as protected as possible during this challenging winter period.
