Health officials urge vulnerable people in North West North East Yorkshire and Humber West Midlands and East Midlands to take precautions as UKHSA issues yellow Cold-Health Alert

Winter isn’t quite done with England yet.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has announced a fresh yellow Cold-Health Alert, warning that chilly conditions could start affecting vulnerable people in several parts of the country over the coming days.

This time, the alert covers five major regions: the North West, North East, Yorkshire and Humber, West Midlands, and East Midlands.

While other areas are not currently included, officials are reminding everyone that cold weather can change quickly — and preparation is key.

Which Areas Are Under the Yellow Cold-Health Alert?

According to UKHSA, the yellow alert applies specifically to:

• North West
• North East
• Yorkshire and Humber
• West Midlands
• East Midlands

The alert is scheduled to run from 6am on Friday 13 February until 8am on Monday 13 February.

For now, the rest of England remains unaffected, but agencies are keeping a close watch on forecasts.

Why Cold-Health Alerts Matter More Than People Realise

A yellow alert doesn’t just mean it’s going to feel frosty outside — it’s a signal that cold temperatures could start putting pressure on health services, especially for people who are already at higher risk.

Prolonged exposure to low temperatures can increase the likelihood of serious issues such as:

• heart attacks
• strokes
• respiratory infections
• worsening asthma or COPD symptoms

Older adults, particularly those over 65, are often the most vulnerable, along with people living with chronic health conditions.

UKHSA’s Message: Check In on Those Most at Risk

Health officials continue to stress that cold weather is not only inconvenient — it can be dangerous.

During previous alerts earlier this winter, Dr Agostinho Sousa from UKHSA urged the public to take simple but important steps, like checking in on neighbours, friends, and relatives who may struggle to stay warm.

The advice remains the same now: even a short cold snap can become serious if someone is isolated or unable to heat their home properly.

A Winter Pattern of Escalating Alerts

This isn’t the first cold-health warning issued this season.

Over the past few months, England has seen several alerts shift between yellow and amber as temperatures dipped sharply.

Earlier in January, the UKHSA and Met Office extended amber-level alerts across all regions, reflecting how widespread and persistent the cold had become.

An amber alert signals that impacts may be felt across the entire health and social care system, with even the general population potentially at risk.

The current yellow alert is less severe, but it’s still a clear sign that winter pressures haven’t fully eased.

How the Met Office Fits Into These Warnings

Cold-Health Alerts are part of the Weather Health Alerting system run jointly by UKHSA and the Met Office.

While these alerts focus mainly on health impacts, the Met Office may also issue separate National Severe Weather Warnings for hazards like:

• snow
• ice
• freezing rain

These warnings can come at short notice, so officials recommend checking updates regularly during cold periods.

Staying Safe During Cold Weather

UKHSA has published updated guidance for both professionals and the general public on protecting people during colder spells. Key reminders include:

• Keep indoor temperatures warm, especially overnight
• Wear layers when heading outside
• Look out for signs of breathing difficulty or chest infections
• Support those sleeping rough or without stable housing
• Make sure older relatives have access to heating and hot meals

Even small actions can prevent serious health complications.

What’s Next?

Forecasters will continue monitoring temperatures through the weekend, and the yellow alert could be extended or upgraded if conditions worsen.

Health agencies are also urging local councils, care services, and hospitals to stay prepared for increased demand, particularly if icy weather adds extra risk of falls and accidents.

For the public, the next few days are a good time to stay informed, check weather warnings, and make sure vulnerable people around you are safe and warm.

Summary: Key Takeaways From the Latest Alert

The UKHSA has issued a yellow Cold-Health Alert for five regions of England, running from Friday morning through Monday morning.

Cold weather can have serious health consequences, especially for older adults and people with respiratory or heart conditions.

Officials are encouraging everyone to stay alert, follow cold-weather guidance, and check in on vulnerable friends, family, and neighbours as temperatures drop again.

Winter may be routine — but its health risks shouldn’t be underestimated.