UK health agency issues yellow cold alert for North West and West Midlands
The UK Health Security Agency has issued a yellow cold health alert for the North West and West Midlands as temperatures are forecast to drop below average later this week.
The UK Health Security Agency announced a yellow cold health alert for the North West and West Midlands, effective from 9 a.m. on Thursday until noon on Saturday. The alert follows forecasts that temperatures will fall below average on Thursday and Friday, with frost and strong winds expected.
Health officials warned that the cold snap could increase demand for health and care services, particularly among people aged 65 and over and those with pre-existing heart or lung conditions. They urged the public to check on vulnerable neighbours and relatives and to take basic precautions such as keeping homes heated and dressing warmly.
"Cold weather can have a serious impact on the health of some people, including those aged 65 and over and those with pre-existing health conditions, so it is vital to check in on friends, family and neighbours who are most vulnerable," said Dr Anya Gopfert, consultant in public health at the agency.
The Met Office reported that colder air will move southward from the north on Wednesday, bringing snow showers to northern Scotland overnight into Thursday, with frost and stronger winds expected in the far north-east. Temperatures are projected to recover toward average levels over the weekend.