Cold weather across the North West has prompted further health warnings from Public Health England this morning.
With much of the country, including the North West, experiencing very cold weather, and some places forecast to see conditions not experienced for several years, PHE doctors are again reminding people to take care.
The Met Office has repeated warnings that all parts of England are experiencing cold conditions and has described the weather as ‘exceptional’.
Dr Thomas Waite of the Extreme Events team, said: “With many places facing severe weather it’s really important people do what they need to, to stay warm – especially with the cold forecast to stay for several days.
“Heating homes to at least 18C will help keep you healthy. Also make sure you eat warm food, move about at home and wear several thin layers instead of fewer thicker ones.
“Those of us who are fit and well can also do lots to help others – and with weather like this some will need help. If you’re able to, consider clearing snow or ice from pavements and paths, see if friends, family or neighbours who are left housebound by the weather need anything fetching and if you know anyone over 65, or with young children or with heart or lung conditions check to see if they’re ok.
“Cold temperatures inside and out can make you ill and can even kill. Prolonged cold weather like this can be a challenge to all of us; remember that staying warm helps keep you healthy.”
Frank Saunders, Met Office Chief Operational Meteorologist said: “An exceptionally cold spell of weather is expected this coming week, with severe overnight frosts, daytime temperatures struggling to rise above freezing, strong winds leading to a significant wind chill and disruptive snow at times, particularly from Tuesday onwards.
“Overnight, snow showers will persist in eastern areas, with clear skies elsewhere. Early Tuesday, a band of snow will move southwestwards from northeast England to Northwest England, with scattered heavy snow showers developing elsewhere. Wednesday will see more frequent and heavy snow showers, especially in the northeast and potentially far southern parts of Cornwall and Devon.
“It will be bitterly cold, with daytime temperatures staying below freezing in many places. The wind will increase, and stay strong through to the end of the week, which as well as leading to a significant wind chill will also bring a risk of blowing snow and blizzard conditions.”
Top tips to prepare for colder weather
You should:
look out for friends and family who may be vulnerable to the cold and ensure they have access to warm food and drinks and are managing to heat their homes adequately
try to maintain indoor temperatures to at least 18C, particularly if you are not mobile, have long term illness or are 65 or over
stay tuned for weather forecasts.
ensure you are stocked with food and medications in advance, have deliveries or ask a friend to help
take weather into account when planning your activity over the following days
seek entitlements and benefits such as Winter Fuel Payments and Cold Weather Payments, which are available to some
avoid exposing yourself to cold or icy outdoor conditions if you are at a higher risk of cold related illness or falls.
discuss with friends and neighbours about clearing snow and ice from in front of your house and public walkways nearby
