Cold weather warning as temperatures plummet towards freezing across South West
A cold weather health alert has been issued for the South West as temperatures plummet across the region. Snow has fallen across the Westcountry this morning (Tuesday, November 19) and elderly people have been warned to be prepared.
The cold weather has caused school closures, train cancellations and traffic delays. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued the first amber cold weather health alert of the season, warning conditions could be dangerous for vulnerable people, including the elderly.
The amber warning covers the east and north of England, the Midlands, and Yorkshire and the Humber, with yellow alerts coming into place for the South West, South East and London at 8am this morning. They are set to last until 6pm on Saturday.
READ MORE: Tesco, Asda and Sainsbury’s warn of shop closures in letter to Chancellor
READ MORE: Met Office issues ice warning for Devon as temperatures plunge tonight
The Alzheimer's Society warned that cold weather can be "particularly challenging" for people with dementia. "Colder temperatures can be difficult for a person with dementia to adjust to, and they may not always be able to communicate that they are cold - or they may not even recognise it themselves," the charity said.
It advised the public to check in on loved ones, friends and neighbours living with the condition. Dr Agostinho Sousa, from the UKHSA, said: "This is the first amber Cold Weather Health Alert of the season, but we can expect more as we approach winter, and it is vital to check in on vulnerable friends, family and neighbours to ensure they are well prepared for the onset of cold weather. Particularly if they are elderly or otherwise at increased risk."
Age UK director Caroline Abrahams said the charity was worried that the loss of the Winter Fuel Payment has caused many older people to be "extra fearful" about turning on their heating this winter. "With high energy bills and food prices it is understandable that some may think they have to cut back on food and turn their heating off, but prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can have a serious impact on an older person's health, especially if they are already trying to manage existing illnesses," she said.
"The cold raises blood pressure, which in turn increases the risk of a heart attack or stroke and breathing in cold air can also increase the risk, and impact, of serious illnesses like flu and pneumonia." Ms Abrahams said it is "vital" that older people stay "fit, warm and well if they can" by having hot food and drinks throughout the day, wrapping up warm and sleeping with the windows closed.
Another charity Asthma + Lung UK urged those living with lung conditions to be "extra careful". The charity warned that cold weather can trigger potentially life-threatening asthma attacks or "flare-ups" for people with other lung conditions.
Erika Radford, head of health advice at Asthma + Lung UK, said: "Your risk of ending up in A&E doubles in winter if you have a lung condition. We're here to help you to stay well, however every day people with lung conditions are needlessly suffering and without urgent action more lives will be put at risk."