An urgent amber cold health alert has been activated for large parts of England, with weather forecasters warning of a severe plunge in temperatures as the new year begins. The alert, issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), signals a period of intense cold likely to cause significant disruption to health services and pose serious risks to the population.
Alert Details and Forecasted Freeze
The amber-level warning covers the North East and North West of England and is active from 8pm on Sunday, December 28th, until 12pm on Monday, January 5th, 2026. In these regions, temperatures are predicted to plummet to around 3-5°C.
Meanwhile, a broader yellow cold health alert is in place for the East Midlands, West Midlands, South East, South West, East of England, Yorkshire and the Humber, and London, where temperatures are expected to drop to 4-6°C from New Year's Day.
Met Office meteorologist Dan Stroud indicated a shift away from recent settled conditions. "We're losing this sort of settled but chilly conditions, and bringing in something a little bit more showery with more wintry hazards in the forecast, particularly for the north of the country," he stated.
Severe Impact on Health and Care Services
The UKHSA has issued a stark warning about the potential consequences of the prolonged cold spell. The agency stated the conditions are "likely" to cause substantial disruption across health and social care systems. This includes a predicted rise in deaths among those aged 65 and over and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at UKHSA, emphasised the dangers: "The forecasted temperatures can have a serious impact on the health of some people, leading to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections."
The alert outlines several critical risks:
- A probable increase in demand for health services across affected areas.
- Indoor temperatures in hospitals and care homes falling below recommended levels for health risk assessment.
- Challenges in maintaining the advised 18°C indoors, heightening risks for vulnerable people.
- Potential staff shortages in critical sectors due to transport disruptions.
- Knock-on effects for other industries, including transport and energy.
Public Advice and Community Support
Authorities are urging the public to take immediate action to protect themselves and others during this period of extreme cold. The central message is to check on those who are most at risk.
"As the colder weather sets in it is vital to check in on friends, family and neighbours that are most vulnerable," Dr Sousa advised. The UKHSA also warned that impacts may extend to younger people, not just the elderly.
With the amber alert in place for over a week, residents in the affected regions are being asked to prepare for the freezing conditions, ensure heating is working safely, and keep a close watch on weather updates and official health advice.
