UKHSA amber Cold-Health Alert for North, 17–22 Nov
An amber Cold-Health Alert has been issued for Yorkshire & Humber, the North West and the North East, with yellow alerts in all other English regions from 12:00 Monday 17 November to 08:00 Saturday 22 November 2025. This is a health-focused alert triggered by forecast low temperatures expected to last through the week.
What this means in practice: under the UKHSA–Met Office Weather-Health Alerting system, amber signals cold conditions likely to affect health and care services for an extended period and possible wider impacts, so a coordinated response is encouraged. Yellow means be aware, with lower likelihood or impact.
Who is most at risk? UKHSA highlights people aged 65 and over, those with existing heart or lung conditions, and people sleeping rough or otherwise vulnerable. Prolonged cold raises risks of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections, which is why regular check‑ins with neighbours and relatives matter.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, who leads Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, says this is the first prolonged cold spell of the season and urges us to look out for those at highest risk. A simple call, warm meal or help with errands can make a real difference.
It’s also worth separating health alerts from weather warnings. Cold‑Health Alerts help the NHS and social care plan for health risks in England; the Met Office may still issue National Severe Weather Warnings for hazards like snow and ice across the UK at short notice. If you’re travelling or running activities, keep an eye on updates.
What to do now at home: heat the rooms you use to at least 18°C, cut draughts, keep bedroom windows closed at night and wear several thin layers rather than one thick jumper. Low indoor temperatures can harm health, particularly if you’re older or have long‑term conditions.
Plan ahead for the week by checking you have regular medicines and food basics, and think about safe travel if it turns icy. If you feel unwell-or you’re worried about someone else-speak to a pharmacist, use NHS 111 or contact your GP. In an emergency, call 999.
Look after others around you. Keep in touch with older neighbours or friends who live alone and ask if they need help with shopping or prescriptions. Watch for signs of hypothermia-such as shivering, slow breathing, confusion or unusual tiredness-and seek medical advice if concerned.
For classrooms and campuses: allow extra layers and warm coats, remind students about sturdy footwear for icy paths, and discuss safe heating at home-never use outdoor heaters or ovens to warm a room, and fit a carbon monoxide alarm. This week’s alert is a timely prompt for PSHE or science on cold and health.
Worried about energy costs? Help exists. You may be able to improve home efficiency, get support to manage bills, or join your energy supplier’s Priority Services Register if you have additional needs. Local councils and trusted charities can advise on what’s available in your area.
Finally, a media‑literacy note: Weather‑Health Alerts usually run from 1 November to 31 March each year. You can sign up for email alerts and find guidance for both professionals and the public so you’re ready for the next cold spell.