Amber cold-health alert expanded to all regions of England

Health Alert

As of Tuesday 6 January, UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office have extended the duration of the current amber cold-health alert. All regions of England will remain under an amber alert until 12pm on Sunday 11 January.

An amber alert means weather impacts are likely to affect the whole health service with the potential for the entire population to be at risk.

Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said:

The current cold snap is now expected to last at least until this weekend according to Met Office forecasts, and we know that prolonged exposure to low temperatures can have a severe impact on people’s health, especially if they’re older or have serious health conditions. That’s why we’re urging people to check in on friends, family and neighbours who may be more vulnerable to the cold and make sure that they’re able to keep themselves warm while this period of cold lasts.

How does cold weather impact health?

Cold weather presents a number of risks to health. Whilst exposure to cold weather can affect anyone, some people are at higher risk of becoming seriously unwell.

Indoor cold temperatures begin to affect health from below 18°C and health impacts arise from both extreme cold event days and prolonged exposure to lower temperatures. 

Cold weather can have direct impacts, like higher blood pressure, increased risk of respiratory infections, injury caused by falls and reduced mobility, and indirect impacts like sleep disturbance, poor mental health and social isolation, exposure to air pollution and exposure to damp and mould. 

Snow and ice can also cause disruptions to service provisions and reduce access to essential services.

Why are people exposed to cold temperatures? 

• fuel poverty
• poor home insulation or heating systems (poor housing stock)
• functional impairment that reduces the ability to feel cold

Who is most vulnerable?

Whilst exposure to cold weather can affect anyone, some people are particularly at risk. These include:

• older people (aged 65 years and over)
• people with long-term health conditions such as cardiovascular or respiratory disease, or a mental health condition
• pregnant women
• young children (particularly those aged 5 and under)
• people with learning disabilities
• people at risk of falls
• people who live alone and may be unable to care for themselves
• people who are housebound or have low mobility
• people living in deprived circumstances