Wrap up warm - cold weather set to continue

Keep your home well-heated, says Public Health England

Severe cold weather conditions and ice are forecast until at least Friday (8 January).

The Met Office has extended the yellow weather warning of ice through to 11.59pm on Friday across the majority of England.

Icy stretches are likely to form in places leading to slippery conditions and perhaps some disruption to travel.

Showers, a mixture of rain sleet and snow, are expected to fall onto frozen surfaces leading to icy stretches forming. In addition, a more persistent spell of rain and hill snow is likely to spread south across northern England and north Wales during Thursday evening and night.

Whilst ice is expected to be the main hazard, snow is likely in place too. Snow is most likely to fall over The Pennines, North York Moors and the high ground of Wales, with 1-3 cm possible here.

With the cold weather set to continue, Public Health England (PHE) is reminding people to look out for those who are vulnerable during low temperatures.

Dr Owen Landeg, Principal Environmental Public Health Scientist at PHE, said: “During this cold spell we all need to be looking out for frail or older neighbours or relatives, especially those living alone or who have serious illnesses.

“We still need to be aware of Covid-19 safety and local restrictions, but regular phone calls or socially-distant visits on their doorstep can make all the difference.

“Simple things - like reminding them to keep their homes well-heated, to at least 18 Celsius, if possible, and if they’re venturing out in icy conditions wearing shoes with a good grip to help prevent falls – will all help keep them safe and healthy.”

Steve Ramsdale, Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office, said: “January has got off to a cold start, with widespread low temperatures, frost and ice across the country.

“Over the next few days temperatures are generally limited to between 3 to 7 Celsius by day and falling widely below freezing overnight with a brisk north easterly wind making it feel even colder for many.

“Snow and sleet is possible, particularly over higher ground in the north of the UK early in the week and perhaps further south towards the end of the week.

“Temperatures are expected to start to recover as we go through the weekend and into the start of next week.”