Yellow Cold-health alert for Lincolnshire as Arctic blast arrives
Lincolnshire residents are being urged to prepare for dangerously cold weather this week after a Yellow cold -health alert was issued for the East Midlands region.
The alert, a joint decision by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office, became active from midday Monday, November 17, and will remain in place until 8am Friday, November 21.
The cause is a severe Arctic air flow pushing south, which is expected to bring widespread frosts and plunge temperatures as low as -7°C in some parts of the UK.
A "yellow" warning indicates that impacts across the health and social care sector are probable, and there is a potential risk to life and property for vulnerable individuals. Officials are warning of possible effects including travel disruption and road closures.
Authorities are stressing the importance of taking precautions, as cold weather significantly increases health risks, especially for the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions.
Key advice includes:
Stay Warm: Ensure homes are heated to at least 18°C (64°F).
Check In: Look out for older or vulnerable family, friends, and neighbours to ensure they are safe and warm.
Travel Prep: Plan ahead for potential delays on roads and public transport.
Residents should monitor the latest forecasts and official guidance from the Met Office and the UKHSA data dashboard to take action in time.
Further tips for staying warm and healthy during cold weather can be found on the government's official Keeping warm and well: staying safe in cold weather guidance page.