Weather latest: Amber cold health alert now issued for parts of UK until Saturday

Amber Cold Health Alert Issued for Parts of the UK Until Saturday

Cold health alerts have been issued across much of the UK as temperatures plunge during the first significant cold snap of the season. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has placed the North East, North West, and Yorkshire and the Humber under an amber alert from Monday until Saturday morning, while the rest of England falls under a yellow alert.

The Met Office has also issued multiple yellow warnings for snow and ice across Scotland and northern England from Monday to Thursday, with forecasters predicting sub-zero temperatures as Arctic air moves south. Over the weekend, temperatures hit -7°C in Tulloch Bridge in the Highlands—the UK’s coldest night since March.

Sky News weather presenter Jo Wheeler warned of a “dramatic change,” saying the cold will feel “shocking” after a mild autumn. Rain, sleet, and snow will sweep across the country early in the week, followed by strong winds and significant windchill.

Deputy chief meteorologists Dan Holley and Tom Crabtree both expect widespread frosts, windchill, and wintry showers, especially in northern and elevated regions. Overnight temperatures could fall as low as -10°C, with some snow accumulations likely over higher ground.

An amber alert indicates potential strain on health and social care services, with increased risks for older people and those with medical conditions. The British Heart Foundation has urged people with heart issues to take extra care, keep warm, and ensure they receive their flu jab.

Milder conditions are expected to return by the weekend.