A cold-health alert has been issued for two regions of the UK this week, including the West Midlands.
This is the first UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) cold-health alert issued during the 2026/27 winter season.
The yellow cold-health alert also affects the North West and is in place from 9am on Thursday, November 12 until 12pm on Saturday, November 14.
Other areas of England are currently unaffected by this alert, the UKHSA has confirmed.
⚠️ A Yellow Cold-Health Alert has been issued for the North West and West Midlands. It will run from 9am Thursday 12 Nov until 12pm Saturday 14 Nov. This is the first alert of the season. See full details on the Data Dashboard: https://t.co/aLh71j0jXC https://t.co/x4bXrwJ3ty
— UK Health Security Agency (@UKHSA) November 10, 2026
What is a cold-health alert?
Under the Weather Health Alerting system introduced by UKHSA and the Met Office, yellow cold-health alerts might be issued during periods of heat or cold, which would be unlikely to impact most people but could impact those who are particularly vulnerable.
Low temperatures can result in increased use of health care services by vulnerable people and an increased risk to health for individuals aged 65 years and over, those with pre-existing health conditions (including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases), and some other vulnerable groups, such as those sleeping rough.
The UKHSA has shared guidance for professionals who are protecting vulnerable people and for the public so they know how to stay safe during the cold weather.
What is the weather like over the weekend in the West Midlands?
Anyone in the West Midlands can expect lower temperatures while the cold-health alert is in place but the sun will also make an appearance.
The Met Office has shared a weather forecast outlook for Thursday to Saturday in the West Midlands, saying: "Dry with plenty of autumnal sunshine throughout.
Could you get a free NHS flu vaccine this winter? 💉🛡️ Maybe you're aged 65 or over, work on the frontline in health or social care, or are pregnant. If you're not sure #AskYourPharmacist https://t.co/IRNMvTPBYz
— UK Health Security Agency (@UKHSA) November 9, 2026
"Feeling colder, especially in the brisk northerly winds to start with overnight frost.
"Hazy sunshine for Saturday."
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.
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“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.
“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.”
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