Rare UKHSA amber alert for cold weather issued - and the Midlands is on the list

A rare amber alert has been issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) as temperatures drop to freezing conditions. The cold weather warning covers the Midlands and is in force until 6pm on Saturday, November 23.

The North East, North West, Yorkshire and The Humber and the East of England were also included in the latest alert. Meanwhile London, the South East and the South West have been hit by a yellow warning for cold weather, which was also in force until Saturday.

According to the UKHSA, the cold weather conditions were likely to cause significant impacts across health and social care services. This could see vulnerable people put at risk and increased pressure on the NHS, the Mirror reports.

READ MORE: Exact time snow expected in Midlands as Met Office issues 15-hour warning

It comes as the Met Office issued a 15-hour yellow weather warning, which predicts snow will hit parts of England from 7pm this evening (Monday, November 18), through to 10am on Tuesday, November 19. As rain, sleet and snow clear on Tuesday morning, ice may form on untreated surfaces.

Those hoping to keep their homes warm during the cold spell have been advised to ensure their curtains remained open during the day. Letting in natural light - even during snowstorms - helps to heat a house naturally - although they should be closed when dusk sets in.