First cold-health alert of the winter issued for Birmingham's region from Thursday

The first cold-health alert of the winter has been issued for Birmingham's region, as temperatures fall sharply over the next few days. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) says the yellow alert runs from 9am on Thursday 12 November until 12pm on Saturday 14 November.

The alert covers the North West and the Midlands region that includes Birmingham. Other regions of England are currently unaffected.

What a yellow alert means

Under the Weather-Health Alerting system run by UKHSA and the Met Office, a yellow cold-health alert is issued when cold weather is unlikely to affect most people but could affect those who are particularly vulnerable. It helps health and social care services prepare.

UKHSA says low temperatures increase the risk to health for people aged 65 and over, those with pre-existing conditions such as heart and lung disease, and other vulnerable groups including people sleeping rough. Cold weather also brings more people into contact with the NHS.

"Check in on friends, family and neighbours"

Dr Anya Gopfert, Consultant in Public Health at UKHSA, said: "This is the first cold-health alert of the winter, but we can expect more as we move further into the season."

"Cold weather can have a serious impact on the health of some people, including those aged 65 and over and those with pre-existing health conditions, so it is vital to check in on friends, family and neighbours who are most vulnerable," she said.

"We're also reminding people to take simple steps to stay warm and look after their health as temperatures begin to fall. Keeping homes heated where possible and dressing warmly can help people stay safe and well during colder weather."

The forecast

The Met Office expects colder air to spread south through the middle of the week, with Thursday one of the coldest days. After a frosty start, temperatures in some areas will reach only around 4C to 6C, and a northerly wind will make it feel colder still. There should be sunshine inland, though, making Thursday and Friday crisp, bright days for anyone who wraps up well.

Simple ways to stay well

Heat the rooms you use most, and keep bedroom windows closed on cold nights.

Wear several thin layers rather than one thick one, and have hot food and drinks through the day.

Keep moving where you can, and stock up on any medicines you need before the weather turns.

Look out for older neighbours and relatives, especially anyone living alone, and offer to pick up shopping or prescriptions.

Anyone worried about someone sleeping rough in the cold can alert local outreach services through StreetLink. People who are struggling to pay for heating can ask their energy supplier about support, and Birmingham City Council lists help with household costs on its website.