The amber cold-health alert has been issued for the North West, including Cumbria, by the UKHSA ahead of forecast weather that is likely to cause 'significant impacts across health and social care services'. The cold-health alerts comes into effect today (Sunday, December 28) at 8pm and will remain in place until 12pm on Monday, January 5 2026. According to the UKHSA, the amber alert has been issued ahead of weather conditions causing a 'rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions' and a 'likely increase in demand for health services'. Writing on the government's website, the UKHSA said: "Forecast weather is likely to cause significant impacts across health and social care services." Potential risks:a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions.

Source: The Times December 28, 2025 14:45 UTC