Public Health England urges heating homes to at least 18°C for over-65s as polar vortex approaches

The Met Office said a weakened and unusually stretched polar vortex may bring colder, drier air and possible snow to the United Kingdom in the coming weeks. While the exact impact on weather remains uncertain, the agency noted that the current cold snap is driven by high pressure and Arctic air.

Public Health England recommended that households maintain a minimum indoor temperature of 18 °C (65 °F) during winter, stressing that the guideline is especially important for people aged 65 and over and for those with pre-existing medical conditions. The agency added that keeping this temperature overnight can help protect vulnerable individuals from low-temperature risks.

"Heating homes to at least 18C (65F) in winter poses minimal risk to the health of a sedentary person, wearing suitable clothing," the health body said in a review of temperature thresholds.

The advice also includes practical steps such as heating frequently used rooms, keeping windows closed at night, drawing curtains at dusk, and sealing drafts around windows and doors. The Met Office warned that cold weather can thicken blood, raise blood pressure, and increase the risk of chest infections, reinforcing the need for adequate indoor heating.

Dr Anya Gopfert, a consultant in public health at the UK Health Security Agency, highlighted the importance of checking on vulnerable neighbours and taking simple measures to stay warm as temperatures fall.

"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," she said.

Health officials also advised staying active indoors, eating hot meals, and dressing in multiple light layers rather than a single thick garment to maintain body warmth.