UK households aged 65 and older have been urged to stay indoors and keep warm until Tuesday. The UKHSA has warned UK households to take precautions as the Amber Cold Heat-Health Alert lasts until Tuesday, January 14.
It warns of a “a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions” and “we may also see impacts on younger age groups.” The Met Office outlook for Sunday to Tuesday explains: ” Turning less cold into the new week.
“Mostly dry and settled in the south, although rather cloudy. Windier in the northwest with some rain at times. Still some chilly nights.” An amber alert would represent a situation in which the expected impacts are likely to be felt across the whole health service, with potential for the whole population to be at risk and where other sectors apart from health may also start to observe impacts, indicating that a coordinated response is required.
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In addition, in some circumstances a National Severe Weather Warning Service (NSWWS) Extreme Heat warning may be issued in conjunction with and aligned to the Weather-Health Alert. This situation would indicate that significant impacts are expected across multiple sectors.
Mobility Solutions Direct added: “It is best to avoid walking outside when the temperature falls to -10C or below. Extremely cold conditions put extra stress on your lungs, increasing the likelihood of coughing, wheezing, or chest tightness.
“This is especially important for older Brits who are more likely to have a heart condition, as the cold makes it more challenging for the heart to maintain proper circulation. Additionally, heart failure is a significant factor in hypothermia-related fatalities.”
The BBC forecast adds: “Tonight, very cold with clear skies to start for most but cloud building for the far west later bringing spells of rain. Elsewhere, mist and fog in places, this rather dense in the south.”