The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a cold weather alert amid an increased risk of icy conditions and snow across the country this week.
The Met Office has warned that all regions of England, including the North West, will experience cold weather from Monday, January 16, to 9am on Friday, January 20. The UKHSA is advising people to stay warm and keep an eye on those most at risk from the effects of cold weather such as the elderly and those with severe health conditions.
It adds that if people are unable to heat all the rooms they use at home, it's vital to at least heat the living room during the day and the bedroom just before going to sleep. It also advises wearing several layers of thinner clothing - rather than one thick layer - as well as eating plenty of hot food and drinks.
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Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at UKHSA, said: "Cold weather can have a serious impact on health, particularly older people and those with pre-existing health conditions, as it increases the risks of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections.
"During this period, it is important to check in on family, friends and relatives who may be more vulnerable to the cold weather. If you have a pre-existing medical condition or are over the age of 65, it is important to try and heat your home to at least 18°C if you can.
Jason Kelly, Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office, said: "Cold, icy and sometimes snowy conditions are in the forecast this week with the UK seeing more of a north-westerly regime, with temperatures well below average for the time of year. Wintry showers are likely at points through the week in the north of England.
"Warnings have been issued and ice is likely to be a hazard for much of the week with some tricky travel conditions possible. Maximum temperatures will largely only reach the low single figures with temperatures below freezing through most nights this week."
For Greater Manchester, the Met Office has predicted that there will be generally dry weather with plenty of sunshine on Monday and Tuesday, as temperatures dip to a low-point of 3C. On Wednesday, conditions will similarly be bright with increased wind speeds, potentially bringing a colder feel to outside conditions and a low-point temperature of 1C.
For the final portion of the week, early predictions by the Met Office state: "Windier on Wednesday with sunny spells and wintry showers. Mostly dry on Thursday and Friday with some sunshine, but a chance of rain later. Cold with widespread overnight frosts."
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