08/01/2026
Weather and Cold Health Alert – Important Information
The Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for snow in our area from 8:00pm tonight (Thursday 8 January 2026) until 9:00am tomorrow (Friday 9 January 2026). A yellow warning for snow is also in place from 5:00pm today until 12:00 noon tomorrow.
Heavy snowfall associated with Storm Goretti is expected and may cause disruption and hazardous travel conditions. During the amber warning period, the Met Office advises that:
Travel delays on roads are likely, with some vehicles and passengers potentially stranded
In addition, an amber cold health alert is in place across all regions of England until 12:00 noon on Sunday 11 January. Prolonged low temperatures may impact health and wellbeing, particularly for older people and those with existing health conditions.
With cold, flu, and respiratory illnesses currently prevalent, it is important that extra precautions are taken during this period. Please ensure vulnerable individuals are checked on regularly and have adequate supplies of food, heating, and essential medication to avoid unnecessary travel. Practical support such as shopping or collecting prescriptions may be needed.
Older people and those who find walking difficult are strongly advised to avoid going out in icy conditions unless absolutely necessary, as this significantly reduces the risk of slips and falls. If travel is unavoidable, appropriate footwear with good grip should be worn, along with warm clothing, hats, and gloves.
Tips for staying warm and well:
- Keep the home, or main living area, heated to at least 18°C
- Wear several layers of clothing
- Keep moving regularly where safe to do so
- Drink warm fluids
- Use a hot water bottle when sitting for extended periods
Further advice on staying warm and well can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/keep-warm-keep-well-leaflet-gives-advice-on-staying-healthy-in-cold-weather/top-tips-for-keeping-warm-and-well-this-winter
Keep an eye on weather updates from the Met Office at https://weather.metoffice.gov.uk/warnings-and-advice/uk-warnings