An amber cold health alert is in effect from until 12pm on Sunday 11 January 2026 across the North West. The amber alert has a matrix score of 13. This means that the forecasted cold weather is expected to have a significant impact on health and social care services.
Cold weather can affect anyone, but some people are at greater risk, including older adults, those with long-term health conditions, and young children. Please take extra care during this period.
What does this mean?
The current forecast suggests:
- Increased risk of illness and deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions. We may also see impacts on younger age groups.
- A likely increase in demand for health services.
- Temperatures inside places like hospitals, care homes, and clinics dropping below the levels recommended for assessing health risks.
- Challenges keeping indoor temperatures at the recommended 18°C, leading to more risk to vulnerable people.
- Staffing issues due to external factors (such as travel delays).
- Other sectors starting to observe impacts (such as transport and energy)
How to stay safe
- Keep your home warm (at least 18°C in rooms you use regularly)
- Wear several layers of clothing and keep active indoors
- Check in on vulnerable family, friends, and neighbours
- Seek help if you feel unwell – especially if you are in a high-risk group
You can see all the weather health alerts currently in place across England on the UKHSA data dashboard.
While exposure to cold weather can affect anyone, some people are particularly at risk. Guidance has been published - guidance on staying safe during cold weather.
Further advice is available here.
