Executive Summary
- The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued Cold-Health Alerts for all of England, effective from November 17 to November 22, 2025.
- Northern regions are under an amber alert, indicating likely impacts across the health service, while the rest of England is under a yellow alert.
- Officials warn of serious health risks, such as heart attacks and strokes, particularly for individuals over 65 and those with pre-existing conditions.
- The public is advised to check on vulnerable friends, family, and neighbors during the season’s first prolonged cold spell.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued Cold-Health Alerts for all of England ahead of what is forecast to be the season’s first prolonged cold spell. The alerts, which warn of increased health risks, will be in effect from Monday, November 17, through Saturday, November 22, 2025.
An amber alert has been declared for the Yorkshire & Humber, North West, and North East regions, signifying that cold weather impacts are likely to be felt across the entire health service. The remainder of England has been placed under a yellow alert.
Officials anticipate that the low temperatures will likely lead to an increased use of healthcare services. The primary risks are to vulnerable individuals, including those over 65, people with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, and those sleeping rough.
“This is the first prolonged cold spell of the season, and it is therefore vital to check in on friends, family and neighbours that are most vulnerable,” said Dr. Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA. He noted that the temperatures can lead to an “increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections.”
The Weather-Health Alerting system is designed to help health and social services prepare for adverse weather. According to the UKHSA, an amber alert indicates that the whole population could be at risk and that a coordinated response may be required across various sectors.
Authorities are urging the public to stay informed about potential severe weather warnings for snow and ice from the Met Office and to take protective measures, particularly for the most vulnerable members of the community.