The Met Office has extended an amber cold weather alert for Walsall, which is now set to remain in force until Friday, January 9, 2026. The warning indicates a significant risk to public health from the continuing icy conditions, with the potential for the entire local population to be affected.
Council Response and Road Safety
In response to the severe forecast, Walsall Council has mobilised its winter service teams. Crews were out on Monday afternoon, January 6, gritting the borough's principal road networks to improve safety for motorists.
A council spokesperson advised residents to take extra care, stating: "Expect icy conditions across the borough for the rest of the week. Our Winter Service crews are out treating road networks again this afternoon. Please take extra care and stick to gritted routes where possible."
Support for Vulnerable Residents
The authority is also focusing on supporting vulnerable people during the freeze. They have reminded the public how to alert them to rough sleepers in need of urgent shelter and assistance.
Residents can contact the council via email at RooflessReferral@walsall.gov.uk or by phone on 01922 652250. Concerns can also be reported through the national Street Link website.
For those struggling with the cold in their own homes, the council has pointed people towards its website for help with heating, food, or bills, and has promoted its network of warm spaces and social hubs.
Impact on Schools and Services
While widespread snowfall caused disruption to the first day back at school for many across the UK, Walsall schools were largely unaffected. Some did implement a delayed start to the day to allow pupils and staff extra travel time on the treacherous roads.
The council's outreach teams are working intensively to provide emergency shelter, and all community services are on high alert until the amber weather warning is lifted on Friday.
