West Midlands residents urged to prepare as first winter cold alert issued
The UK Health Security Agency has issued a yellow cold health alert for the West Midlands and North West as forecasters predict a drop in temperatures later this week.
Health chiefs have issued the first cold health alert of the winter, with the West Midlands among the areas covered as temperatures are forecast to fall later in the week.
The UK Health Security Agency has put a yellow alert in place for the North West and West Midlands from 9am on Thursday until noon on Saturday.
Other parts of England are not currently affected.
Forecasters say temperatures are expected to dip below average by Thursday and Friday, with frost and cold winds in some areas. The Met Office said colder conditions will start moving into the north by Wednesday, with snow showers expected in northern Scotland overnight on Wednesday into Thursday.
It added that colder air will spread south across the UK through Thursday and Friday, with temperatures falling below average widely by Thursday and especially Friday. Frost is also predicted, while the far north east is expected to feel particularly cold in stronger winds.
Health leaders said low temperatures can increase demand on health and care services, and urged people to check on relatives, friends and neighbours who may be more vulnerable.
They warned that colder weather can pose a greater risk to over-65s and people with health conditions such as heart and lung problems.
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.
“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.
“We’re also reminding people to take simple steps to stay warm and look after their health as temperatures begin to fall. Keeping homes heated where possible and dressing warmly can help people stay safe and well during colder weather.”
Forecasters said the colder spell is likely to become less widespread over the weekend, with temperatures recovering closer to average.
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