Amber health alert update as temperatures plummet and warning expanded across England

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office have expanded an amber Cold-Health Alert for two regions in England.

Health chiefs warned that earlier on in the week temperatures are expected to drop significantly to 2C or lower in many areas across England. It means that East and West Midlands, which were previously covered under a yellow alert, are now upgraded to amber.

Meanwhile, the North West, North East, Yorkshire and The Humber remain covered by the amber alert which will remain in place until midday on Tuesday, December 5. An amber alert means there is a significant risk to health for those over the age of 65, those with pre-existing health conditions, and other vulnerable groups.

Read more: Met Office weekend weather forecast after snow falls with more forecast across UK

Read more: Parts of Greater Manchester have woken up to a bit of snow as freezing conditions hit UK

Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, previously said: "With a risk of widespread overnight frosts and some snow across the country this week, it’s important to check in on the wellbeing of those most vulnerable to the cold. Cold weather can have a serious impact on health, particularly older people, and those with pre-existing health conditions, as it increases the risks of heart attacks, strokes, and chest infections.

"If you have a pre-existing medical condition or are over the age of 65, it is important to try and heat the rooms where you spend most of your time in, such as your living room or bedroom."

Cold weather conditions are expected to continue throughout most parts of the UK. The Met Office predicts temperatures in parts of the UK, including Greater Manchester, to remain relatively