Mapped: UK regions under cold weather health alerts as temperatures plummet

Health chiefs have issued the first cold health warning of the season with temperatures expected to plummet.

Temperatures are forecast to drop later this week, with some parts of the country expected to see frost, cold winds and temperatures below freezing.

A yellow cold health alert has been issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) for the North West and West Midlands. The alert will be in place from 9am on Thursday until 12pm on Saturday.

Health leaders have encouraged people to check on their loved ones and neighbours, saying low temperatures can lead to a spike in the use of health and care services.

Experts added that colder weather can also result in increased risk for over-65s and people with certain 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.”

Temperatures are forecast to plummet to minus figures in parts of the UK on Thursday and Friday.

The Met Office said colder conditions will begin to move into the north by Wednesday, with snow showers expected in northern Scotland overnight on Wednesday into Thursday.

On Friday, parts of England across the north and south will see freezing temperatures of -1C with temperatures dropping to 3C in London.

What is the forecast for the next five days?

Today:

Turning drier and brighter in the south after morning rain and drizzle. Elsewhere, despite frequent blustery showers feeding into the far north, these heavy and wintery at times with coastal gales, it will remain largely dry with sunny spells.

Tonight:

Turning drier in the south, though in the far north, frequent wintery showers persist with strong winds. Elsewhere, despite a few light showers, clear spells allow for widespread frost.

Thursday:

A noticeably chillier day under northerly winds, breezier towards coasts. Wintery showers continue to feed into the far north, but elsewhere it will remain largely dry with plenty of sunshine.

Outlook for Friday to Sunday:

Feeling chilly over the next few days under northerly winds, with plenty of sunny spells on offer by day and frost by night. Blustery showers persist in the north.