Weather

Cold weather alert issued

UKHSA issues cold weather alert for North, East and Midlands

With cold weather forecast across parts of the country over the coming days, 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 East of England, North West of England, East of England, Yorkshire and the Humber, West Midlands and East Midlands regions will experience cold weather from 9am on Wednesday 1 December to midnight on Friday 3 December.

Agostinho Sousa, a Consultant in Public Health Medicine at UKHSA, said:

As we experience low temperatures this winter it’s important to remember to check on those who are more vulnerable to cold weather. A call or socially distanced doorstep visit to look out for old or frail friends and family, especially if they live alone or with a serious illness, can make all the difference.

Remind them to heat their home to at least 18 Celsius, 64.4 Fahrenheit and to wear shoes with a good grip if they need to go outside.

Met Office Expert Operational Meteorologist Helen Caughey said:

Temperatures are set to drop once again for much of the UK in the coming days, with cooler air being brought down from the north accompanied by some gusty winds.

With winds forecast to be in excess of 40mph in some areas it will feel much colder than temperatures indicate, especially in exposed coastal locations. There is also a chance of some snow, predominantly over high ground, but which may reach lower levels at times, mainly as sleet.

To check the latest weather forecast updates visit the Met Office website or app.

UKHSA has supplemented the Cold Weather Plan for England with useful resources and advice on the concurrent risks of cold weather and COVID-19 and Keep Warm Keep Well guidance.

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.

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