The UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) has heightened its alert level for all of England, warning of an expected increase in fatalities attributed to the approaching cold weather. In a recent update, the agency announced the issuance of an amber cold health alert for the following regions: East Midlands, West Midlands, North East, North West, South East, South West, East of England, Yorkshire and The Humber, and London.
The update cautions that the projected weather conditions are likely to have significant impacts on health and social care services, with plummeting temperatures anticipated to lead to a rise in mortality rates nationwide. The agency specifically highlighted the risk for individuals aged 65 and above or those with underlying health conditions, while also acknowledging potential impacts on younger age groups.
The drop in temperatures is expected to pose challenges in maintaining recommended health risk assessment levels within facilities such as hospitals, care homes, and clinics. The UKHSA also raised concerns about the difficulty in sustaining indoor temperatures at the advised 18°C, thereby increasing the vulnerability of at-risk individuals.
Furthermore, the agency warned of potential staffing disruptions due to possible travel delays and disruptions in the transport and energy sectors. Previously issued amber alerts for the North East and North West were upgraded to encompass the entirety of England, with all regions now under heightened amber warnings. These alerts are scheduled to remain in effect from 8pm today until 10am on January 6.
Dr. Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, emphasized the importance of checking on vulnerable friends, family, and neighbors during the cold spell. He highlighted the heightened health risks associated with the forecasted temperatures, particularly emphasizing the increased susceptibility to heart attacks, strokes, and chest infections among individuals over 65 and those with preexisting health conditions.
Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Mark Sidaway cautioned that Britons should brace for freezing conditions as they welcome the New Year. He predicted a wintry start to 2026, with Arctic air and strong northerly winds ushering in cold or very cold weather across the UK. Severe frosts are expected, alongside the first snowfall of the season for many regions.
A yellow warning for snow and ice has been issued from midnight on Friday, January 2, covering sections of the southeast, London, the West Midlands, and much of Wales. Snow warnings are in place for at least 79 locations in the coming days, with additional alerts in Northern Ireland and the northern regions of Scotland on January 2.