PHE issues cold weather health warning

Public Health England (PHE) has released a statement warning people to take care as cold weather is forecasted across the majority of England.

The Met Office has declared a Level 2 cold weather alert, with affected regions likely to experience prolonged low night and daytime temperatures.

Dr Angie Bone of the Extreme Events team at PHE said: “Cold does kill, even in places where the temperatures aren’t at their lowest. Now is the time to prepare for the cold weather forecast by the Met Office, and to think of those you know who are older, very young, or have pre-existing health conditions who are particularly vulnerable. You can find more advice on the Stay Well This Winter and Keep Warm Keep Well webpages.

Andy Page, chief operational meteorologist at the Met Office, said: “High pressure will bring generally dry and settled conditions this week, with clear skies and light winds allowing a widespread frost to occur on Monday and Tuesday night. From Wednesday onwards cloudier and slightly less cold conditions will arrive across northern England, therefore overnight frosts will become fewer and less severe in the north but cold weather may persist across the south where skies remain clearer.

“Looking ahead into December and beyond, there are indications that a cold start to winter is more likely than normal, but this doesn’t guarantee snow nor does it mean we won’t see spells of mild and wet weather at times. Our forecast pages can help you plan for the winter weather.
You can also find tips and advice for travelling in cold conditions to help you get ready for winter.”