Cold Weather Alert - 25 January 2021

Regular updates on cold weather and how to stay well during low temperatures.

Public Health England (PHE) has issued a cold weather alert for Tuesday 26 January across most of the country.

Severe cold weather is expected in the North East, North West, Yorkshire and the Humber, West Midlands, East Midlands, East of England, South East England and London.

The Met Office has forecast widespread low temperatures, overnight frosts, scattered wintry showers and a risk of ice.

As cold weather alert thresholds continue to be met for a further period, Dr Owen Landeg, a Principal Environmental Public health Scientist at PHE, said:

"Keep looking out for frail or older neighbours and relatives, especially those who live alone or with a serious illness. Make a call, or socially distanced doorstep visit if they live close by, to remind them to try to heat their home to at least 18°C and to wear shoes with a good grip if they need to go outside. It’s also important to check that they have enough food and any medicines they need.

"If you have experienced flooding, it’s important to avoid using petrol, diesel generators or other similar fuel-driven equipment indoors because carbon monoxide in the exhaust gases can be deadly.

"Flooding can significantly disrupt people’s lives and it’s normal to feel anxious, tired and have difficulty sleeping. If you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed by the situation, talk to friends, family, neighbours or community support groups. If these feelings persist, contact your GP or NHS 111 for advice. The National Flood Forum can also provide valuable support to those affected."

Keep updated on the weather forecast and news on the Met Office and Environment Agency websites.

Refer to the Cold weather plan for England which includes resources and advice on the concurrent risks of cold weather and COVID-19, for advice on how to keep warm and keep well during winter, and visit PHE’s flooding page for health information for flooding events.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/cold-weather-plan-cwp-for-england

https://publichealthmatters.blog.gov.uk/2020/11/11/health-matters-cold-weather-and-covid-19/