The UK was bracing for -7C temperatures. (Image: Getty)
Temperatures were set to plummet to minus 7C in some parts of t,he UK with cold health alerts issued.
The predicts sub-zero temperatures overnight in many parts of the country over the coming days, with a risk of icy patches developing and a possibility of snow in the South, although it is not expected to cause significant disruption.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued yellow cold health alerts for several regions across England, including the North East, North West, Yorkshire and the Humber, and the South East. These alerts will be in effect from 9am on Friday until 9am on Tuesday.
The warnings indicate that the weather conditions may lead to increased use of healthcare services by vulnerable individuals and pose a greater risk to their lives.
It comes as a lung charity is warning people with conditions like asthma and COPD to be vigilant.
Stephen Dixon, spokesman for the , said: “What we’re seeing with the UK’s weather over the next few days is the influence of high pressure and the development of south-easterly airflow, which will see temperatures drop for many.
“Overnight we could see temperatures drop as low as minus 7C in rural parts of Scotland from Friday into the weekend. Further south we’re still likely to see through the weekend sub-zero temperatures.
“Rural parts of southern Wales could reach minus 4C from Friday overnight into the weekend.”
However, Mr Dixon reassured that while it would be a “cold period”, it was not “historically noteworthy”.
Brits are bracing for a chilly period as day-time temperatures dip “slightly below” the February average of 7C, according to forecasts.
Mr Dixon added: “February has started warmer than average, so it’s going to be a return to more typical February averages, albeit a bit colder.”
Mr Dixon also warned that from Friday, there might be a brief snowy interlude in the South of England and South Wales, though currently, predictions suggest this will not cause significant problems.
He mentioned that elevated areas in south Wales might see a smattering of snow, possibly reaching a couple of centimetres.
Mr Dixon warned that icy conditions could emerge in the coming days, potentially forming dangerous patches, especially at night.
Looking ahead, Saturday appears set to be predominantly overcast, with drier conditions up north but rain likely in the southern regions of England, and Sunday’s forecast promises continued showers but drier overall.
Wintry showers on Monday are another possibility being monitored by the .
Emma Rubach, head of health advice at Asthma and Lung UK, said: “Cold weather can be dangerous if you have a lung condition as it can bring on symptoms like coughing, wheezing and leave you struggling to breathe. This is because cold air can cause the airways to narrow, which can increase the amount of mucus produced and make breathing harder.
“Cold, dry air can also irritate the airways and worsen symptoms of asthma and other lung conditions and weakens the immune system, making it harder to fight respiratory infections like colds and flu which are still doing the rounds.
“We would urge anyone with a lung condition to be careful and make sure they are protected against the cold.
“The most important thing to do is ensure you are using your preventer inhaler regularly as prescribed if you use one, as this builds up protection in the airways over time and always have your inhaler reliever with you, in case you do feel symptoms coming on.”