UK weather forecast: Freezing temperatures and frost to hit parts of UK as alert issued

Alert issued by the UK Health and Security Agency on Tuesday covers central and southern England

A person walks over frosted grass in Windsor Great Park, Berkshire. The Met Office said the West Midlands, East Midlands, East, South East and South West are also set to experience colder temperatures through Sunday. PA
Powered by automated translation

A cold weather alert has been issued as freezing temperatures and widespread frost are set to hit parts of the UK this week.

The UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) urged Britons to stay warm and look out for those most at risk from the effects of colder conditions as it issued the warning on Tuesday.

The alert covers central and southern England.

The Met Office said the West Midlands, East Midlands, East, South East and South West are also set to experience colder temperatures from about 6pm on Wednesday to 9am on Sunday.

Temperatures will be as low as 3°C to 5°C during the day and minus 5°C at night on Thursday.

“It will certainly be a noticeable change,” said Met Office Meteorologist Stephen Partridge.

“One for getting the bigger coats out, really, through the end of the week.

“Less of the milder conditions we’ve had by day and certainly widespread frosts overnight.

“Thankfully, it’s going to be mostly dry, so ice shouldn’t be too much of an issue.”

He added that the cold weather was due to Arctic air blowing across the UK.

Snow brings joy to the people of northern Saudi Arabia

Snow brings joy to the people of northern Saudi Arabia

Agostinho Sousa, consultant in public health medicine at the UKHSA, urged Britons to remind elderly neighbours to heat their homes.

“Cold weather can have a serious impact on health, particularly for older people and those with heart and lung problems, as it increases the risks of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections.

“Remind vulnerable relatives and neighbours to heat their home to at least 18°C — particularly if they have reduced mobility, are 65 or older, or have a health condition.

“Should they need to go outside, it’s important for them to wear shoes with a good grip.”

The alert comes as the Alzheimer’s Society warned colder weather can bring specific challenges for those living with dementia and can even make symptoms temporarily worse.

“People with dementia aren’t always able to communicate the fact they’re cold — or they may not even recognise it themselves,” said the charity.

Simple measures can be taken to ensure they stay safe and warm, the organisation added.

These include making sure those with dementia are dressed for colder weather, supporting them across icy and snowy surfaces outside, and encouraging regular movement as well as regular meals.

Updated: January 19, 2022, 6:19 AM