An amber cold health alert has been issued across large parts of England amid warnings that freezing Arctic winds could lead to a rise in deaths among vulnerable people.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned that the impending cold snap is “likely to cause significant impacts across health and social care services.”
The alert comes as temperatures plummeted to -7.8C at Tulloch Bridge in the Scottish Highlands on Sunday night, marking the coldest temperature since last winter.
The severe weather is expected to particularly affect those aged 65 and over or people with existing health conditions.
Temperatures are set to drop as the week goes on
PA
The amber alert came into force at 10am on Monday and will remain in place until 6pm on Saturday, November 23.
The warning covers six regions including the North East, North West, Yorkshire and The Humber, East Midlands, West Midlands and East of England.
London, the South East and South West of England have been placed under a less severe yellow cold health alert for the same period.
The UKHSA warned that temperatures in hospitals and care homes could drop “below the recommended levels” of 18C.
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The UK Health Security Agency has issued this map
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The Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings for snow and ice across parts of northern England and Scotland.
Up to 10cm of snow is possible in some areas, with the Met Office saying it “seems most likely across parts of Yorkshire and Derbyshire.”
Forecasters predict 5 to 10cm of snow could accumulate above 200 metres, with potentially 15 to 20cm above 300 metres.
A period of rain, sleet and snow is expected during Monday evening and overnight into Tuesday morning, with ice forming on untreated surfaces as conditions clear.
Snow and ice at Corgaff in Aberdeenshire as the UK braces for more snow
PA
The UKHSA warned there will likely be increased demand on health services during this period. The Met Office has warned of potential power cuts and travel chaos, with some rural communities at risk of being “cut off.”
Drivers are being urged to prepare for hazardous conditions by carrying essential items including warm clothing, food, water, blankets, torches and ice scrapers.
Yellow weather warnings will remain in place until Tuesday morning at 10am, with forecasters predicting dangerous roads and paths.