The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a new yellow Cold-Health Alert for the North West and North East of England, warning that cold weather could pose health risks for vulnerable people in these regions. The alert comes into force at 6pm on Monday 26 January and will remain in place until 6pm on Friday 30 January. Other parts of England are not currently affected.
Cold-health alerts are issued when low temperatures are expected to increase health risks, particularly for older adults, people with long-term health conditions and those living in poorly heated accommodation. While a yellow alert represents the lowest level on the scale, it is still a signal for households, health services and local communities to stay vigilant.
Earlier this month, much of England experienced more severe conditions. On several occasions in January, UKHSA and the Met Office extended amber cold-health alerts across the entire country as freezing temperatures persisted. Amber alerts indicate that cold weather is likely to have a widespread impact across health and social care services, with potential risks to the wider population.
Health officials say prolonged exposure to cold can lead to serious complications, including heart attacks, strokes and chest infections, particularly among people aged 65 and over or those with existing respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. Other groups, such as people sleeping rough, are also at heightened risk during cold spells.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, has repeatedly urged the public to look out for one another during periods of cold weather. He emphasised that checking in on older relatives, neighbours and friends, and making sure they are able to keep warm, can make a real difference to health outcomes during prolonged cold snaps.
Dr Paul Coleman, Consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA, echoed these concerns, warning that very low temperatures can quickly translate into increased pressure on health services. He stressed the importance of staying informed, particularly as severe weather warnings for snow and ice can be issued by the Met Office at short notice.
For many people within the UK’s migrant and diaspora communities, cold weather brings additional challenges. New arrivals, international students and families who may not be used to British winters can underestimate how dangerous prolonged cold can be, especially in older housing with poor insulation. Rising energy costs have also made it harder for some households to heat their homes adequately, increasing the risk of cold-related illness.
At Chijos News, we focus on explaining UK public health alerts in clear, practical terms for diaspora communities across the country. Understanding what a cold-health alert means, and knowing when to take extra precautions, can help families protect older relatives, young children and anyone living with long-term health conditions.
UKHSA has published guidance for both professionals and the public on staying safe during cold weather, including advice on keeping homes warm, reducing exposure to cold outdoors and recognising early signs of cold-related illness. While cold-health alerts focus on health impacts in England, the Met Office’s National Severe Weather Warning Service continues to provide broader warnings across the UK for hazards such as snow and ice.
As winter conditions continue to change, health officials advise people to stay alert, follow official guidance and check regularly on those who may be most affected. Even during a yellow alert, small actions at community and family level can help prevent serious health consequences when temperatures drop.
