Amber cold health alert issued for all of England, officials warn of rise in deaths

The UK Health Security Agency has issued an amber cold health alert across all of England and warned the cold spell is likely to lead to an increase in deaths, especially among people aged 65 and over or with underlying health conditions; the alert is in force from 8pm this evening until 10am on January 6.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has upgraded cold weather warnings and placed all of England under an amber cold health alert. Officials reported that the incoming cold spell is likely to cause an increase in deaths and to put pressure on health and social care services. The Met Office has also issued a yellow warning for wide areas and snow was forecast to arrive within hours. The amber alert is active from 8pm this evening until 10am on January 6. What officials said: - The UKHSA announced an amber alert covering all English regions, naming areas including the East Midlands, West Midlands, North East, North West, South East, South West, East of England, Yorkshire and the Humber, and London. - The agency reported the cold weather is likely to cause significant impacts across health and social care services and to increase fatalities, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with pre-existing health conditions. - UKHSA noted concerns about indoor temperatures falling below the advised 18°C threshold in settings such as hospitals and care homes. - The organisation also reported possible workforce and transport disruptions that could affect service delivery during the period. Summary: Officials say the amber alert signals likely strain on health and social care services and an increased risk of deaths, especially for older people and those with health conditions. The alert covers all regions of England and runs from 8pm this evening until 10am on January 6. Undetermined at this time.