UKHSA Issues Cold-Health Alerts as Temperatures Plummet Across England
London, 11 February 2026 – The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a series of yellow Cold-Health Alerts (CHA) for significant portions of England as a period of freezing weather and snow prepares to grip the country. The alerts, which come into force from 06:00 on Friday 13 February, warn of a “greater risk to life” for vulnerable populations and potential disruption to health and social care services. This sudden dip in temperature follows a prolonged period of mild, wet weather, with forecasters predicting lows of -4°C in some regions.
Regional Impact and Forecast
The yellow alerts are primarily focused on northern and central England, including the North West, North East, Midlands, and Yorkshire. The Met Office has supported these health warnings with separate weather alerts for snow and ice, particularly across Scotland and northern England. Up to 10cm of snow is anticipated in certain areas, which may lead to travel disruption and increased pressure on local authorities. Health officials have urged residents to check on elderly neighbours and those with underlying respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, as cold temperatures can significantly increase the risk of strokes and infections.
The Cold-Health Alerting System: Key Facts
The UKHSA, in partnership with the Met Office, operates a colour-coded alerting system designed to protect the public and allow healthcare providers to prepare for increased demand. Unlike standard weather warnings, these alerts specifically measure the potential impact of cold on human health.
| Alert Level | Definition and Criteria |
|---|---|
| Green (Summer/Winter) | No alert issued; business as usual. Preparedness and long-term planning are encouraged. |
| Yellow (Response) | Issued when cold weather is likely to impact those aged 65+ or those with pre-existing health conditions. |
| Amber (Enhanced Response) | Severe weather likely to affect the wider population and put significant pressure on the NHS. |
| Red (Emergency) | Significant risk to life for even healthy individuals. Declared during prolonged, extreme cold affecting multiple sectors. |
| Temperature Trigger | Alerts are often triggered when mean temperatures are forecast to be 2°C or below for 48 hours. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is most at risk during a Yellow Cold-Health Alert?
The primary groups at risk include individuals over the age of 65, those with long-term health conditions such as heart or lung disease, and people with reduced mobility. The cold can decrease dexterity, increasing the risk of falls, and can exacerbate respiratory infections.
What is the difference between a Met Office warning and a UKHSA alert?
A Met Office weather warning focuses on the weather itself (snow, ice, or wind) and its impact on infrastructure and travel. A UKHSA Cold-Health Alert specifically assesses the risk the weather poses to human health and the capacity of the health and social care system to respond.
How should households prepare for the freezing conditions?
Residents are advised to maintain indoor temperatures of at least 18°C in rooms used frequently. It is also vital to ensure that heating systems are safe; experts warn against “dangerous improvisation” during cold snaps, which can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Vulnerable individuals should ensure they have adequate food and medicine supplies to avoid unnecessary travel during the peak of the cold spell.