The Met Office is warning of a nosedive in temperatures in a matter of hours, with snow showers battering a number of areas. The expectant cold deluge is the reason the forecaster has extended a yellow cold weather alert into late next week.
The icy introduction for Britain is due to start from this weekend, when an area of high pressure to the west is set to open the door to sub-zero temperatures and brutal conditions on the roads and pavements.
The alert says: “Significant impacts are possible across the health and social care sector due to forecast weather conditions, including: observed increase in mortality across the population, particularly in the 65+ age group or those with certain underlying health conditions.
“But impacts may also be seen in younger age groups; increased demand for remote health care services likely with an impact on ability of services delivered due to effects on workforce possible.”
It urges people to keep indoor temperatures at a recommended 18C – something it says may become challenging for some, leading to increased risk of vulnerable people.
