Health officials have issued a stark warning to the British public as a severe cold snap grips the nation, bringing with it significant snowfall and plummeting temperatures.
Severe Weather Warnings Blanket the UK
The Met Office has activated a series of weather alerts across the country. Large parts of England and Wales are under a Yellow warning for snow and ice, with forecasts predicting accumulations of up to 5cm. The situation is more severe in Scotland, where an Amber warning for snow is in place alongside a Yellow ice warning, with some areas braced for a potential 40cm of snow.
Further harsh conditions are expected, particularly along England's east coast, which is set to experience snowy spells on both Saturday and Monday. This freezing weather has already led to disruptions in public transport and services.
The Critical One-Hour Limit for Staying Warm
Beyond the travel chaos, the cold poses a serious threat to health. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued specific guidance to help people, especially vulnerable groups, stay safe. While maintaining a home temperature of at least 18°C is advised, a key recommendation is to avoid sitting still for more than an hour.
The guidance states that regular movement is essential for generating body heat. For those with limited mobility, the UKHSA suggests simple activities like stretching arms and legs periodically. The Met Office echoes this advice, urging people to keep active both indoors and outdoors to maintain core warmth and help prevent illnesses like colds and flu.
Who is Most at Risk and How to Stay Safe
The UKHSA highlights that certain individuals face a higher risk of becoming seriously unwell in the cold. This group includes:
- Older people
- Pregnant women
- Young children
- Those with pre-existing health conditions or weakened immune systems
Practical tips from the Met Office include breaking up long periods of inactivity by walking around your home or standing up during phone calls. For venturing outside, they recommend wearing several thin layers of clothing rather than one thick layer, as this traps heat more effectively.
With the severe weather set to continue, following this official advice is crucial for protecting public health during this intense winter freeze.
