UK issues cold health alerts as temperatures fall to -6.5C

Yellow cold health alerts have been issued for parts of the UK after temperatures dropped to -6.5C in some areas.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued alerts for the North West of England, North East of England and Yorkshire, starting at 9pm on Sunday.

The alerts will remain in place until Thursday morning, the agency said.

This is the second cold health alert issued this autumn. An earlier warning for the North West and West Midlands came into force on Thursday.

Paul Coleman, a consultant in public health at UKHSA, said cold weather could seriously affect the health of vulnerable people, particularly those aged 65 and over and people with pre-existing health conditions.

He urged people to check on vulnerable friends, relatives and neighbours as colder weather continues.

The agency also advised people to take simple steps to stay warm, including heating the rooms they use most, such as living rooms and bedrooms, and dressing warmly.

UKHSA warned that falling temperatures could increase demand for healthcare services among vulnerable people and raise health risks for older adults and those with existing medical conditions.

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