Amber Cold-Weather Warnings Issued for Northern England Amid Health Risks
Two amber cold-weather warnings have been issued for north-east and north-west England, taking effect from 8pm on Sunday to midday Monday 5 January 2026.
These warnings indicate a likely rise in deaths and increased healthcare usage, especially among people aged 65 and over or those with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. Vulnerable younger people and rough sleepers may also be affected by the cold.
Indoor temperatures in hospitals, care homes, and clinics are expected to fall, with maintaining indoor temperatures at 18C likely to be challenging, thus increasing risk to vulnerable individuals.
Other regions in England will be under a yellow alert. The amber warnings for north-east and north-west England could have a significant impact on health services, compounded by staffing issues caused by travel delays and potential disruptions to transport and energy infrastructure.
The Met Office forecasts mostly cloudy conditions overnight with frost and fog, making travel conditions on Monday morning tricky. Projected temperatures include -1C overnight in Penrith, around 0C in the Lake District, and between -6C to -7C in northern Scotland, with a brisk northerly breeze along the north-east coast.
Dr Agostinho Sousa of the UK Health Security Agency urged the public to check on friends, family, and neighbours as the cold weather sets in, highlighting increased risks of heart attacks, strokes, and chest infections for those aged 65 or with pre-existing conditions.
The Met Office also noted that 2026 is expected to be more than 1.4C hotter than pre-industrial levels.
