Severe cold weather predicted for England this week
Difficult conditions are expected from Wednesday evening
Last updated 5th Dec 2022
The Met Office has issued a severe cold weather alert for England, as it warned plummeting temperatures later this week could increase health risks to vulnerable people and disrupt deliveries.
The level three, or amber, cold weather alert was issued this morning and warns of severe conditions in England - between 6pm on Wednesday and 9am on Monday, December 12.
The alert requires social and healthcare services to take action to protect high-risk groups.
Temperatures are expected to turn colder across much of the UK late on Wednesday and through Thursday, as air from the Arctic spreads south across the country.
The Met Office said that very cold nights are expected with "widespread and potentially severe frosts".
Daytime temperatures are expected to be near, or just above, freezing.
Wintry showers are also likely to affect some coasts, with the Met Office forecasting they may push into some inland areas at times, bringing a risk of icy patches.
The RAC has advised motorists to check their vehicles are "winter ready", with properly inflated tyres that have good tread.
Rod Dennis, RAC spokesperson, said: "With temperatures plummeting this week, many drivers might be taken aback by the cold after an exceptionally mild autumn.
"Drivers with older batteries in their cars might also wish to give their vehicle a 20-minute drive before colder conditions arrive to ensure the battery can cope with sub-zero temperatures."
The Met Office has advised people to try and maintain indoor temperatures of at least 18°C, stating that this is particularly relevant for those who are not mobile, have a long-term illness or are 65 or over.
It has also asked people to "look out for friends and family who may be vulnerable to the cold", ensuring they have access to warm food and drinks and are managing to heat their homes adequately.
The Met Office's cold weather alert system operates in England from November 1 to March 31, every year, in association with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
The system comprises five levels of response based on cold weather thresholds which are designed to trigger an alert when severe cold weather is likely to significantly affect people's health.
Top tips for keeping your house warm over winter
1. Radiator Reflectors
If your radiator is joined to an outside wall, the heat can be lost to the outside. With a reflector installed behind the radiator, the panel helps retain the heat by reflecting it back into the room.
2. Tape up keyholes and catflaps
A lot of draught can be let in through small gaps around the house, so tape up those keyholes and loose-fitting pet flaps to check there is no breeze sneaking its way in.
3. Sofa Blanket
Introducing... the sblanket. For those evenings spent curled up on the sofa with a cuppa, having a blanket permanently on the sofa means that you won't have to get up five minutes later, realising you're cold and grabbing for the dressing gown!
4. Draught stoppers
The proper ones can be pretty pricey, but the classic sausage dog definitely does the trick for keeping the draft out between the door and the floor. You can also stuff a pair of tights with socks and pop it under the door if you're feeling DIY!
5. Hot drinks
Whether you're into your hot chocolate, your peppermint tea or your honey and lemon, a hot beverage warms you up a treat when the nights draw in.
6. Thick curtains
When it comes to curtains in winter, the thicker the better! And if you don't fancy splashing out on a new pair of curtains, you can line them yourself with fleece.
7. Let the daylight in
Even if you are using lovely thick, luscious new curtains, open them up during the day! Letting as much natural light (and therefore heat) in as possible is essential for homely heat retention.
8. Hot water bottle
They're as old as the hills, but nothing goes further than a warm water-filled bottle to tuck under your jumper while you're snuggling on the sofa.
9. It's all about LAYERS
When it comes to getting warm, layers are the key. So it's time to get the vest, the t-shirt, the long-sleeved shirt, the jumper, the scarf and the blanket out of the wardrobe. It does increase your washing loads a bit, though...
10. Get snug in a onesie
Probably one of the comfiest items in the world, and obviously also one of the most attractive! Onesies are a great thing to whack on at the end of the day – they're super comfy, and cover literally every part of you!