Cold weather alert issued by UKHSA

Sunrise over Ogden, Kitcliffe and Piethorne Reservoirs

With a risk of severe cold weather, icy conditions and heavy snow across parts of the country, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is encouraging people to stay warm and look out for those most at risk from the effects of cold weather.

The Met Office is warning that the North West will experience cold weather from midnight on Tuesday 4 January to midday on Thursday 6 January.

Agostinho Sousa, a Consultant in Public Health Medicine at UKHSA, said: "Cold weather can have a serious impact on health, particularly for older people and those with heart and lung problems, as it increases the risks of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections.

"It’s important to check on those who are more vulnerable to cold weather, including older neighbours or relatives – especially those living alone or those who have serious illness.

"Remind them to heat their home to at least 18 Celsius and to keep up to date with the forecast."

Met Office Chief Meteorologist Neil Armstrong said: "Following an exceptionally mild spell, temperatures are set to drop for many in the north of England from late on Monday and into Tuesday. This drop in temperatures will spread further south later on Tuesday.

"This change is being brought on by a cold northerly flow, which brings with it the risk of some wintry showers in places in northern England, especially over high ground. Minimum temperatures over the next few days are expected to drop below freezing, heightening the risk of some ice formation."

For people struggling to afford heating bills, Simple Energy Advice provides free advice on energy efficiency and national grants that are available to help keep you warm this winter.

If people can’t heat all the rooms they use, it’s important to heat the living room during the day and the bedroom just before going to sleep. Wearing a few thin layers is better at trapping heat than wearing one thick layer. Having plenty of hot food and drinks is also effective for keeping warm.