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UK Braces for Cold Snap: Health Alert Issued
24 Dec
Summary
- A yellow cold health alert is active for south-west England until December 27.
- Forecasters deem a white Christmas highly unlikely across the UK.
- Cold temperatures may increase healthcare use and risks for vulnerable people.
A yellow cold health alert has been issued for south-west England, effective from Christmas Day evening through December 27. This alert signifies that low temperatures are expected to cause minor impacts on health and social care services, potentially increasing healthcare usage among vulnerable individuals and raising the risk of exposure for those at higher risk.
Forecasters have declared a white Christmas highly improbable for the UK this year. While most of the country will experience settled and cooler conditions under high pressure, with dry weather prevailing, there's a slim chance of rain clipping the south-west. Sunny spells are anticipated, especially in the south and Wales, though cloud cover is expected further north.
Strong easterly winds are a notable factor, particularly along England's south coast, where gusty conditions may occur. Overnight, frost and freezing temperatures are predicted for western rural areas, with potential lows of minus 6C in Scotland and minus 4C in Wales. Meanwhile, traffic is expected to peak on Christmas Eve, with drivers advised to travel early to avoid congestion.
