The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a yellow cold health alert for part of the country over the festive period, warning of potential impacts on vulnerable people. The alert will be active from 6pm on Christmas Day until 12pm on December 27 and specifically covers the south-west of England.
Weather Warnings for Wind and Cold
In addition to the health alert, the Met Office has issued a separate yellow weather warning for wind. This warning affects much of Wales and south-west England and is in place for the entirety of Christmas Day, from 4am to 11.59pm.
Forecasters predict that east to north-easterly winds will become strong and gusty, with peak gusts of 45-55mph widely and potentially 55-65mph along exposed coasts. The Met Office has cautioned that this unusual wind direction could lead to transport disruption, power supply issues, and hazardous waves on some coasts.
Health Impacts and Travel Disruption
The UKHSA has stated that the period of cold weather could have minor impacts on health and social care services. The agency highlighted an increased use of healthcare services by vulnerable people and a greater risk to life for the vulnerable during the alert period.
On the roads, the RAC predicted that festive getaway trips would peak on Christmas Eve, with around 4.2 million car journeys expected. They advised drivers to avoid major roads, including sections of the M25 and M5, between 1pm and 7pm if possible to miss the heaviest traffic.
Dry but Chilly Festive Forecast
Despite the warnings, Met Office spokesman Oli Claydon indicated that Christmas Day should see "pretty decent" conditions with mainly dry weather. He described a bright start in southern England and Wales, with cloudier conditions further north that should break by lunchtime.
However, he tempered expectations for a white Christmas, calling it "highly unlikely". The highest temperatures on Christmas Day are forecast to be around 7C in north-east England and 6C in the south.
The real chill is expected overnight. Mr Claydon warned of frost and freezing temperatures, with minus 6C possible in rural Scotland and minus 4C in rural Wales overnight on Christmas Day into Boxing Day.
