First Cold Health Alerts Issued for England Amid Arctic Air

Cold health alerts have been issued for parts of England as Arctic air is set to sweep across the UK from midweek. Overnight temperatures are predicted to fall below zero, with widespread frost expected. Some rural areas could experience temperatures as low as minus 5C.

Sleet and snow are possible in the far north, accompanied by strong winds creating bitter conditions. Yellow cold health alerts, issued by the UKHSA, are in place for the West Midlands and north west England from Thursday morning until Saturday midday. The UKHSA anticipates minor impacts on health and social care services, with a greater risk to vulnerable individuals.

While Wednesday may offer crisp sunshine for many, with milder, rainy conditions in southern Britain, Arctic air will surge southwards by Wednesday night. Strong northerly winds will develop over Scotland, bringing showers, sleet, and potential snow, with accumulations possible on higher ground. Winds will also strengthen along the North Sea coast.

By Thursday, widespread frost is expected in the northern half of the UK, while the south remains milder. Inland areas will be calm, but a northerly breeze will make it feel colder. Daytime highs will typically reach 7C, though showers, some wintry, may persist in the far north. Clear and calm conditions are forecast for Thursday evening as temperatures fall rapidly.

Friday will see widespread frost across the UK, with temperatures in many towns and cities around or just below zero. Rural spots could chill to minus 5C, though western coastal areas will be milder due to sea influence. Inland daytime highs will peak at 6 or 7C. The cold snap is expected to be brief, with milder Atlantic weather spreading in by the weekend.