The forecasted weather is expected to cause significant impacts across health and social care services. The cold health alert has been issued by the UK Health Security Agency which is warning "to be felt across the health and social care sector, with potential for the whole population to be at risk". "Increased use of health care services by vulnerable people and a risk to health for individuals aged 65 years and over, particularly respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Dr Paul Coleman, Consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA, said: "Low temperatures like these can have serious impacts on the health of some people, particularly older people and those with serious health conditions. Potential impacts of the amber cold health alert include:A rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions.

Source: The Times December 31, 2025 15:11 UTC