'Amber' cold weather health alert as Arctic blast hits northern Lincolnshire

An amber-level cold weather health alert has been issued as temperatures plunge across northern Lincolnshire ahead of an overnight risk of snow and ice in some parts of the region.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) cold weather alert was introduced this morning and is expected to be in effect until 6pm on Saturday (November 23) as an Arctic maritime airmass spreads southwards across the UK leading to temperatures a few degrees below the average for the time of year.

The amber cold health alert warns of potential "significant impacts across health and social care settings". UKHSA has said cold weather conditions are likely to put vulnerable people at risk with health experts warning that there could be a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over, or people with health conditions, as it becomes more challenging to keep indoor temperatures above the recommended 18C.

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UKHSA says there is also likely to be an increase in demand for health services.

Meanwhile, a Met Office yellow-level weather warning for snow and ice that was extended to include large areas of North and North East Lincolnshire yesterday has today been amended to only cover more western and southern parts of the region away from the coast. This alert, which will be in force between 7pm this evening (Monday) and 10am on Tuesday, warns of a spell of snow that "may bring disruption" overnight and into the morning. Elsewhere, it is more likely to fall as sleet or rain.

The forecaster says the "most likely scenario" is for most of the snow to accumulate on hills, with 5 to 10cm possible above 200 metres, and maybe more at higher altitudes. However, there is also a chance of snow settling at lower levels. Disruptive snow of 5 to 10cm "remains uncertain" with Yorkshire and Derbyshire being the areas "most likely" to see it.

Meanwhile, there is a wider risk of ice as rain, sleet and snow freezes on untreated surfaces.

Dan Suri, a chief meteorologist at the Met Office, said: “An area of low pressure slides its way eastwards on Monday night. The associated frontal system, marking the boundary between cold air in the north and milder conditions to the south, will bring disruptive snow to some areas between Monday evening and Tuesday morning.

“This is likely to coincide with rush hour, leading to disruption to some transport routes across a central swathe of the UK on Tuesday morning. It will also be windy in the far south.

“Updates to the warnings throughout the week are likely, so it is important to stay up to date with the latest forecast."

National Highways severe weather resilience manager Darren Clark said: “Gritters will be out treating our roads around the clock when ice or snow is forecast, but it is still important to drive to the conditions.

“Keep your distance and reduce your speed, because even in conditions that seem normal, and where the snow is not settling, it can be slippery if ice patches have formed, or where fresh grit has not been worked into the carriageway.

“Drivers should plan their journeys, monitor weather reports and pack a snow kit of blankets, food, water and a shovel.”

Forecast for northern Lincolnshire

Rest of Monday

A hazy afternoon before a band of sleet and snow sweeps eastwards overnight, with heavy snow possible generally, but particularly over hills. Clearer towards dawn with icy patches and severe frost in many places. High: 4C Low: 0C

Tuesday

Cloud and wintry showers mostly clearing, though some may continue through the day, particularly near the coast. A generally bright day but feeling cold in blustery winds. High: 5C Low: -3C

Wednesday to Friday

Bright but staying bitterly cold with sunny spells and a risk of mostly coastal wintry showers in brisk northerly winds. Some further ice and snow is possible along with severe overnight frosts quite widely. High: 4C Low: -4C