The Met Office has issued a severe cold weather alert for England, as it warned plummeting temperatures later this week could increase health risks to vulnerable people and disrupt deliveries.
The level three, or amber, cold weather alert was issued on Monday morning and warns of severe conditions in England between 6pm on Wednesday and 9am on Monday, December 12.
The alert requires social and healthcare services to take action to protect high-risk groups.
Temperatures are expected to turn colder across much of the UK late on Wednesday and through Thursday as air from the Arctic spreads south across the country.
The Met Office said that very cold nights are expected with “widespread and potentially severe frosts”.
Daytime temperatures are expected to be near or just above freezing.
Wintry showers are also likely to affect some coasts, with the Met Office forecasting they may push into some inland areas at times, bringing a risk of icy patches.
The RAC has advised motorists to check their vehicles are “winter ready”, with properly inflated tyres that have good tread.
Rod Dennis, RAC spokesperson, said: “With temperatures plummeting this week, many drivers might be taken aback by the cold after an exceptionally mild autumn.
“Drivers with older batteries in their cars might also wish to give their vehicle a 20-minute drive before colder conditions arrive to ensure the battery can cope with sub-zero temperatures.”
The Met Office has advised people to try and maintain indoor temperatures of at least 18°C, stating that this is particularly relevant for those who are not mobile, have a long-term illness or are 65 or over.
It has also asked people to “look out for friends and family who may be vulnerable to the cold”, ensuring they have access to warm food and drinks and are managing to heat their homes adequately.
The Met Office’s cold weather alert system operates in England from November 1 to March 31, every year, in association with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
The system comprises five levels of response based on cold weather thresholds which are designed to trigger an alert when severe cold weather is likely to significantly affect people’s health.
