UK Cold Weather Alert Issued as Temperatures Plunge and Frost Returns
UK Cold Weather Alert Issued as Temperatures Plunge and Frost Returns.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued its first cold-health alert of the 2026/27 winter season, warning that falling temperatures could pose a risk to vulnerable people across parts of England.
A yellow cold-health alert is now in force for the North West and West Midlands, including areas such as Greater Manchester, Cheshire, Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent. The alert came into effect at 9am on Thursday 12 November and is scheduled to remain in place until midday on Saturday 14 November.
The warning follows forecasts of significantly colder conditions across the country, with temperatures expected to fall below seasonal averages and overnight frost becoming widespread.
Temperatures Could Fall Below Freezing
The Met Office is forecasting a noticeable change in weather conditions as colder northerly winds bring an early taste of winter to much of the UK.
Some rural locations could experience overnight temperatures dropping to between -6C and -7C, with widespread frost expected.
Temperatures in Stoke-on-Trent, Manchester, Preston and other parts of the Midlands and North West are forecast to approach -1C during the early hours of Friday morning.
Northern Scotland could also experience wintry showers, with some snow possible over higher ground.
Although Friday is expected to bring sunshine to many parts of England and Wales, temperatures will remain low, particularly overnight.
The outlook for the weekend suggests Saturday will begin with further frost, while more unsettled conditions and rain are expected to develop from Sunday.
Health Warning for Vulnerable People
UKHSA says cold weather can have a significant impact on people’s health, particularly those aged 65 and over, people with existing medical conditions and individuals who are particularly vulnerable.
Lower temperatures can increase the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular problems and lead to additional demand on NHS and social care services.
Dr Anya Gopfert, Consultant in Public Health at UKHSA, said:
“This is the first cold-health alert of the winter, but we can expect more as we move further into the season.”
She urged people to check on friends, family members and neighbours who may be more vulnerable to the effects of cold weather.
UKHSA is also advising people to take simple precautions, including keeping homes adequately heated where possible, wearing warm clothing and making sure vulnerable relatives and neighbours have the support they need.
Which Areas Are Affected?
The current yellow cold-health alert covers two regions:
- North West England
- West Midlands
Other regions of England are currently unaffected by the cold-health alert.
It is important to understand that these are health-related alerts issued for England by UKHSA in partnership with the Met Office. They are separate from the Met Office’s National Severe Weather Warning Service, which covers wider weather-related risks across the UK.
At the time of writing, the Met Office is forecasting widespread overnight frost but is not listing a national severe weather warning for Thursday 12 or Friday 13 November.
More Cold Weather Expected
The latest conditions mark the arrival of the first significant cold spell of the winter season, although forecasters expect temperatures to gradually recover in some areas over the weekend.
With further cold weather possible as November progresses, people are being encouraged to prepare for falling temperatures and take extra care when travelling during frosty conditions.
Motorists should allow additional time to clear frosted windscreens, watch out for icy patches and remain aware of changing road conditions, particularly on untreated roads.
The UKHSA says further cold-health alerts could be issued as the winter season progresses.
