Severe cold weather conditions have been forecast across the UK for the rest of this week - prompting the Government to issue a health warning.

Snow and sleet could hit the south of the country towards the end of the week, the Met Office has said.

Public Health England (PHE) is now urging everyone to pick up the phone and check on neighbours and vulnerable people in the community to make sure they're safe and warm.

The current cold spell is expected to continue until 9am on Friday January 8.

What's the risk?

  • Government figures show that cold-related deaths represent the biggest weather-related source of mortality in England - on average, there are approximately 35,000 excess winter deaths each year in England and Wales.
  • Hypothermia is the main cause of cold-weather deaths - but other leading causes include heart and lung conditions, as well as dementia and Alzheimer’s.

While the latest national lockdown rules out visiting neighbours and friends in their homes, people are encouraged to check on members of the community via phone or a socially-distanced door knoock.

Here's what to check, according to Public Health England:

  • Remind those at risk to keep their homes well heated
  • Homes should be heated to at least 18 Celsius, 356 Fahrenheit, if possible
  • Shoes should have a good grip to prevent falls if vulnerable people are venturing out in icy conditions.

Dr Owen Landeg, principal environmental public health scientist at PHE, said: "During this cold spell we all need to be looking out for frail or older neighbours or relatives, especially those living alone or who have serious illnesses.

"We still need to be aware of Covid-19 safety and local restrictions, but regular phone calls or socially-distant visits on their doorstep can make all the difference."

Even if temperatures seem relatively mild, there's still a risk, PHE has warned. Adverse impacts on health are seen even at outdoor temperatures between 4 to 8°C.

Cold weather forecast by the Met Office

Steve Ramsdale, chief meteorologist at the Met Office, said: "January has got off to a cold start, with widespread low temperatures, frost and ice across the country.

"Over the next few days temperatures are generally limited to between 3 to 7 Celsius by day and falling widely below freezing overnight, with a brisk north easterly wind making it feel even colder for many.

"Snow and sleet is possible, particularly over higher ground in the north of the UK early in the week and perhaps further south towards the end of the week."

Temperatures are expected to start to recover as through the weekend and into the start of next week.