Brits are being warned to brace for a significant drop in temperatures this week, which could pose serious health risks for some. The cold snap may increase the risk of health complications associated with the chilly weather.
While the colder temperatures can be uncomfortable for many, they can pose a more severe health threat to others who may suffer from serious illnesses or worsening conditions due to the plummeting temperatures. For most people, the winter months heighten their susceptibility to a range of ailments, including flu, common cold, and Covid-19.
However, those living with long-term health conditions may find their symptoms worsen when the temperature consistently drops throughout the day and night.
As a result, it is generally advised that certain people ensure their homes are sufficiently heated and dress appropriately for the weather if they need to venture outdoors. This advice comes after the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued a yellow cold weather warning until 8am on Friday, November 21.
Regions affected by the warning include the North East, North West, East Midlands, West Midlands, and Yorkshire and The Humber. The UKHSA issues these warnings when severe temperature changes are likely to impact a person’s health and wellbeing.
The Met Office has verified that parts of the UK could experience snow and ice this week, following above-average temperatures for this time of year. The Met Office’s chief meteorologist, Dan Holley, explained that the upcoming cold snap is due to high pressure in the northwest.
He emphasised that this will “drive a cold northerly flow from the arctic”, potentially bringing “much colder conditions than of late”. He also pointed out that current Met Office forecasts suggest temperatures could plummet to as low as -7C in some areas this week.
People most at risk from the cold
Guidance from the UKHSA notes that the following nine people are particularly at a serious risk of experiencing health issues during this cold period:
- People with long-term health conditions such as cardiovascular or respiratory disease, or a mental health condition
- People living in deprived circumstances
- Pregnant women
- People aged 65 years and over
- People who are housebound or have low mobility
- Young children – especially those aged 5 and under
- People with learning disabilities
- People at risk of falls
- People who live alone and may be unable to care for themselves
The agency also points out that several external factors could heighten your risk of being more vulnerable to the cold, such as substandard housing, snow and ice, and a higher prevalence of infectious diseases.
Keeping your home warm
One crucial measure you can take to mitigate any complications from the cold weather is to ensure your home is sufficiently heated when needed. Generally, it’s recommended that rooms you spend a significant amount of time in should be heated to at least 18C.
If your home isn’t warming up despite having the central heating or electric heater on, it might be time to make some minor adjustments. Check for any unsealed doors or windows that could be letting in a draught, as this can allow cold air from outside to infiltrate your home.
It’s also crucial to ensure your home is properly insulated, which can help minimise heat loss. If you’re worried about the potential health impacts of cold weather, consider signing up for UKHSA weather health alerts.
These provide early warnings for any severe temperatures that could affect your health. You can register for these alerts online here.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
