An amber cold weather alert has been issued ahead of freezing temperatures arriving across Essex. The alert, which covers all of England, came into force this morning, and people are encouraged to look out for vulnerable people.
The Met Office and UKHSA are warning that all of the south-east will experience cold weather from 12pm today (January 2) to 12pm on January 8. They claim that cold air will spread across the country, and could have a devastating impact on more vulnerable people.
According to UKHSA, forecast weather is likely to cause significant impacts across health and social care services, including a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions. We may also see impacts on younger age groups and a likely increase in demand for health services.
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There is a risk for temperatures inside places like hospitals, care homes, and clinics dropping below the levels recommended for assessing health risks. There will also be challenges keeping indoor temperatures at the recommended 18°C, leading to more risk to vulnerable people.
The cold weather alert comes as the Met Office predicted that several areas of Essex could soon see snow as part of a mega three-day yellow warning. The warning is in place from Saturday at 12pm (January 4) to Monday at 9am (January 6).
Experts at the Met Office have predicted outbreaks of rains could be preceded by a spell of snow. Whilst it’s uncertain how far north it could spread, they say “significant accumulations of snow are possible”.
We seem to be seeing the impact of the cold weather in Essex already. A major hospital in Essex has closed several wards to visitors due to fears about illnesses spreading.
Broomfield Hospital in Chelmsford has restricted access to some wards to protect current patients. The hospital, managed by Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, has closed visiting to its emergency department, acute medical unit, and medical wards – however, patients receiving end-of-life care can still be visited.
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