Londoners are being urged to prepare for a sharp drop in temperatures as the new year arrives, with forecasters issuing a significant health warning for the capital. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has activated a yellow cold health alert for London and several other regions, effective from New Year's Day 2026.
Forecasters Predict a Chilly Start to 2026
While the end of 2025 is expected to be relatively mild with temperatures around 7-8°C, a marked change is on the horizon. From January 1st, 2026, colder conditions will sweep across the nation, with London included in the widespread chill. Met Office forecaster Dan Stroud indicated that the UK is moving away from settled weather towards more unsettled conditions, bringing increased wintry hazards.
Areas under the yellow alert, including the capital, can expect temperatures to fall to between 4°C and 6°C. However, northern parts of England will face even harsher conditions, with an amber cold health alert in place for the North East and North West from 8pm on Sunday, December 28th, 2025, until 12pm on January 5th, 2026. Temperatures there are predicted to drop as low as 3-5°C.
Serious Health Risks for Vulnerable People
The UKHSA has warned that the impending cold snap is likely to have a substantial impact on health and social care services across the affected regions. Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at the UKHSA, highlighted the severe dangers.
"The forecasted temperatures can have a serious impact on the health of some people, leading to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections," he said. The agency specifically noted the heightened risk for individuals aged 65 and over and those with pre-existing health conditions, warning of a potential rise in deaths among these groups.
Impacts are also expected to extend to younger demographics, with an anticipated increase in demand for NHS services. The UKHSA outlined further concerns, including:
- Indoor temperatures in hospitals and care homes falling below recommended levels for health risk assessment.
- Challenges in maintaining the advised 18°C minimum in homes, increasing risks for vulnerable residents.
- Potential staffing issues in critical sectors due to travel delays caused by the weather.
- Knock-on effects for transport and energy infrastructure.
Staying Safe During the Cold Spell
In response to the warning, health officials are emphasising community support. "As the colder weather sets in it is vital to check in on friends, family and neighbours that are most vulnerable," advised Dr Sousa. The public is encouraged to look out for those who may struggle to heat their homes or who live alone.
The yellow cold health alert also covers the East Midlands, West Midlands, South East, South West, East of England, and Yorkshire and the Humber. Residents in these areas are advised to stay informed via official forecasts and to take necessary precautions to protect their health during this period of significantly colder weather.
