First amber health alert issued as cold weather grips the UK - full list of areas

A rare amber health alert for cold weather is now in place across a large part of England as temperatures plummet and parts of the country brace for snowfall.

It is the first alert of its kind issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) this season. The health agency has upgraded several regions in England from yellow to amber, which means the cold weather could have a "significant impact" on the health service.

Areas covered by the amber alert, which is is force now until 6pm on Saturday, include the North East, North West, Yorkshire and The Humber, East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England. A yellow alert will come into force at 8am on Tuesday covering London, the South East and South West.

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The UKHSA warned that the cold conditions could be dangerous for vulnerable people, including the elderly. 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 charity director Caroline Abrahams said: “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.

“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