With low temperatures and potentially severe overnight frosts forecast across all parts of England from Wednesday, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is encouraging people to stay warm and look out for those most at risk from the effects of cold weather.
The Met Office and UKHSA are warning that all regions of England will experience severe cold weather starting on the evening of Wednesday 7 December.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Consultant in Public Health Medicine at UKHSA, said:
Cold weather can have serious consequences for health, and older people and those with heart or lung conditions can be particularly at risk.
If you have a pre-existing medical condition, you should heat your home to a temperature that is comfortable for you. Try to heat the rooms you use most, such as the living and bedroom, to at least 18°C if you can and keep your bedroom windows closed at night.
Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist, Rebekah Sherwin, said:
Temperatures will start to dip this week, with daytime temperatures struggling to get above freezing in many places from mid-week onwards. However, the cold air from the Arctic will also bring brighter conditions, with some dry, sunny spells in many areas, particularly away from the coast.
UKHSA has supplemented the cold weather plan for England with useful resources and advice on the risks of cold weather and tips for staying warm and well this winter.
For people struggling to afford heating bills, Simple Energy Advice provides free advice on energy efficiency and national grants that are available to help keep you warm this winter.
If people can’t heat all the rooms they use, it’s important to heat the living room during the day and the bedroom just before going to sleep. Wearing several layers of thinner clothing will keep you warmer than one thicker layer. Having plenty of hot food and drinks is also effective for keeping warm.
