A severe amber cold weather alert has been extended into this weekend as temperatures are expected to dramatically dip overnight. The Met Office and the UK Health Security Agency has warned the most vulnerable members of society continue to be at risk of the freezing mercury which is slowly starting to ease. It was due to expire for England tomorrow, but instead has been pushed into this Saturday at noon to accommodate a series of bitterly cold nights ahead. The amber alert is just one away from a national emergency.
It says: “There is a 90 percent probability of severe cold weather/icy conditions between 9am on Thursday, January 26 and midday on Saturday, January 28 in parts of England. This weather could increase the health risks to vulnerable patients and disrupt the delivery of services.
“Further night frosts to come over the weekend, with the most widespread frost likely on Friday night into Saturday morning, along with some patchy freezing fog in the south. The current alert has been extended until midday Saturday to capture these cold overnight conditions. Daytime temperatures will be mostly close to average.”
As part of its advice, people are asked to check in on loved ones and ensure they have access to warm food and drinks. They should also ensure they are able to adequately heat their home.
It continues: “Look out for friends and family who may be vulnerable to the cold, and ensure they have access to warm food and drinks and are managing to heat their homes adequately.
“Try to maintain indoor temperatures to at least 18C, particularly if you are not mobile, have a long-term illness or are 65 or over. Avoid exposing yourself to cold or icy outdoor conditions if you are at a higher risk of cold-related illness or falls.”
