Amber Cold Weather Alert UK has been issued by the Met Office as freezing temperatures and severe conditions are forecast across parts of the country. Brighton & Hove City Council is reminding everyone to take extra care in the cold and to look out for friends, neighbours and relatives who may need support. The Amber Cold Weather Alert UK remains in place.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office have extended the duration of the current amber cold-health alert until 12pm on Monday 12 January.
Cold weather can seriously affect health, particularly for older people, families with young children, people sleeping rough and anyone with long term health conditions.
Residents are encouraged to check the forecast and national warnings and take steps to stay warm and well, including heating rooms to at least 18°C and wearing several thin layers rather than one thick layer.
Councillor Mitchie Alexander, Cabinet Member for Communities, Equalities, Public Health and Adult Social Care, said: “We know that prolonged cold weather can have serious impacts on health, especially for older people and those with existing health conditions.
“With the amber alert extended, we’re asking everyone to take simple steps to stay warm and well and to check in on friends, family and neighbours, who might need extra support. By looking out for each other, we can help keep our community safe during this period of severe cold.”
Neighbours are encouraged to check on elderly and vulnerable residents to see if they need help with getting food, medicine or care, and if people are having problems getting services they need, to contact the Adult Social Care Access Point for advice and support.
If anyone is struggling to keep their home warm or manage energy bills, local services can help, including Energyworks and The Local Energy Advice Partnership (LEAP), which offer free support, small energy saving measures and advice to keep homes warm.
The Community Hub can also help with cost of living support, including advice on keeping warm in winter, and CareLink Plus provides equipment and a 24‑hour alarm service to call for help in an emergency at home or when out and about.
The city’s Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) opens when the temperature is predicted to feel like zero degrees Celsius, or there’s an amber weather warning, and offers warmth and shelter for people sleeping rough this winter.
To report concerns about anyone sleeping rough in the city, including people staying in tents, residents can visit the Streetlink website.
For local advice on staying safe and well in the cold, including services and contact details, visit Stay safe and well in the cold on the council website, or call NHS 111 for urgent medical help if you’re worried about your health or someone else’s.
FAQ Section
What is an Amber Cold Weather Alert UK?
An Amber Cold Weather Alert UK is issued by the Met Office when severe cold condition pose a risk to health and travel across affected regions.
How long will the Cold Amber Cold Weather Alert UK remain in place?
The warning remains active for the period specified by the Met Office and may be extended depending on weather conditions.
Which Areas Are Affected by the Amber Cold Weather Alert UK?
The alert covers parts of the country experiencing freezing temperature, ice roads and increased health risks, particularly for vulnerable people.
What should residents do during an Amber Cold Weather Alert ?
Residents are advised to limit unnecessary travel, check on vulnerable neighbours and follow official Met Office guidance.
