As temperatures continue to drop over the weekend, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned that the cold weather could seriously impact the health of vulnerable people, such as those 65 and older and those with pre-existing conditions. The cold weather alert was initially scheduled to end on Sunday, but it has been extended to Tuesday in response to growing concerns about the impact of cold weather on the UK health system.
What Impact Will the Cold Weather Have on Vulnerable People?
“Some people, especially those 65 and older and those with pre-existing medical conditions, may experience significant health effects from this weather,” the UKHSA said. Therefore, we must check on our most vulnerable friends, family members, and neighbours.
The agency stressed that because of the ongoing low temperatures, vulnerable people may be more susceptible to severe illnesses like heart attacks, strokes, and chest infections. The health service encourages everyone to be on guard during the ongoing cold snap, especially when caring for people who might find it challenging to cope with the unfavourable weather conditions.
Which weather warnings and record-cold temperatures have been issued?
Altanharra, a community in northern Scotland, experienced the coldest night of the winter thus far in the United Kingdom, with lows of minus 14°C. According to the Met Office, more freezing temperatures are predicted nationwide over the next few days.
The Met Office has issued multiple yellow warnings for ice in addition to the amber health alert, covering a large portion of the southwest and Wales, Northern Ireland, northern Scotland, and the east coast of England, which stretches from Northumberland to Essex. These warnings are set to expire by late morning on Friday, but the weather conditions will remain severe, especially during nocturnal hours.
What Effects Will Snow, Ice and Risky Travel Situations Have?
“We will be recuperating until the first half of next week after another cold couple days. Overnight frost and ice formation are anticipated to be extremely severe, and temperatures are expected to drop below freezing anywhere in the United Kingdom, according to a Met Office meteorologist.
The weather is predicted to bring a combination of snow and ice to different regions of the United Kingdom in the days ahead. Gloomy skies and rainstorms may occur in some areas of Devon and Cornwall on Friday. Snowfall is expected on Dartmoor and Exmoor as a front moves southwest.
The Met Office warned that snow might fall in northern Scotland and northeast England as temperatures stay below freezing on Friday. The organisation warned the public to use caution, noting that “it is likely to turn to icy conditions as well because that rain is falling on some pretty cold ground.”
How Much Time Will the Severe Cold Last?
Friday night is expected to bring some of the cold snap’s lowest temperatures, especially in northern England and Scotland. The chilly weather is expected to continue. The Met Office cautioned that temperatures might range from -15°C to -20°C. Though Saturday will continue to be unusually cold, the weather is predicted to warm gradually as the weekend continues into Monday.
Which School Closures and Travel Disruptions Has the Cold Caused?
The severe weather has severely disrupted travel throughout the UK. Extreme frost has rendered roads dangerous, while snow and ice have forced the closure of rail lines. On Thursday, almost 90 schools in Wales and hundreds of schools in Scotland were forced to close.
Roadside assistance calls have also increased due to the cold snap. As drivers battle icy conditions and snow on the roads, the RAC reported the most significant demand for rescues in three days since December 2022.
What Can We Expect This Weekend and Beyond?
The Met Office concluded that “Saturday is still going to be another cold one, unfortunately,” even though the immediate weather outlook is bleak. As the cold weather alert continues to affect daily life throughout the United Kingdom, the public is encouraged to exercise caution and be ready for additional interruptions.
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