This amber alert has been issued only two days after a yellow warning alert was issued and the risk score has now risen to 12 – with the amber alert in effect from 12pm today (January 2) until 12pm on Wednesday, January 8.
READ MORE: Weekend snow warning issued for the Southwest
READ MORE: ‘Greater risk to vulnerable people’: Yellow cold health warning issued
What to expect
Forecast weather is likely to cause significant impacts across health and social care services, including:
- A rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions. We may also see impacts on younger age groups
- A likely increase in demand for health services
- Temperatures inside places like hospitals, care homes, and clinics dropping below the levels recommended for assessing health risks
- Challenges keeping indoor temperatures at the recommended 18°C leading to more risk to vulnerable people
- Staffing issues due to external factors (such as travel delays)
- Other sectors starting to observe impacts (such as transport and energy)
UKHSA has published guidance for professionals protecting vulnerable people and for the public on staying safe during periods of cold weather.
Sarah Bird, consultant in health protection at UKHSA South West, said: “The forecasted temperatures can have a serious impact on the health of some people, including those aged 65 and over and those with pre-existing health conditions, and it is therefore vital to check in on friends, family and neighbours that are most vulnerable. These people could be more at risk of heart attacks, stroke and chest infections as a result of cold temperatures.”
Under the CHA system introduced by UKHSA and the Met Office, an amber alert means that cold weather impacts are likely to be felt across the whole health service for an extended period of time, with potential for the whole population to be at risk and where other sectors may also start to observe impacts, indicating a coordinated response is required.
The Met Office has already issued a yellow National Severe Weather Warnings for snow across the South West so be sure to stay updated on the website.
