Cold Weather and Flu Concerns as UK Prepares for Christmas
Published 24 December 2025
Highlights
- A yellow cold-health alert has been issued for south-west England from 25-27 December due to low temperatures, posing risks to vulnerable groups.
- The Met Office forecasts a low chance of snow on Christmas Day, with temperatures expected to be below average across the UK.
- Flu cases are declining in England, but the UKHSA warns the virus could resurge in the new year, urging continued precautions.
- Christmas travel is expected to peak on Christmas Eve, with heavy traffic anticipated on major roads like the M25 and M5.
- The UKHSA emphasizes the importance of winter health precautions, especially for those vulnerable to cold and flu.
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Rewritten Article
Cold Weather and Flu Concerns as UK Prepares for Christmas
As the UK braces for a chilly Christmas, the Met Office and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have issued warnings and advice to the public. A yellow cold-health alert has been announced for south-west England from 6 pm on Christmas Day until noon on 27 December, highlighting potential risks to vulnerable individuals due to plummeting temperatures.
Weather Forecast and Health Alerts
While the dream of a white Christmas remains elusive, with only a slight chance of snow in the south-west, the Met Office predicts a frosty morning for many on 25 December. Temperatures are expected to hover around 6C to 7C, with a biting easterly wind making it feel even colder. Becky Mitchell, a Met Office meteorologist, noted that while the weather is colder than average, it is not unusual for this time of year.
The UKHSA's alert underscores the increased risk to life for vulnerable people, particularly the elderly and those with multiple health conditions. The agency advises taking precautions to protect against the cold, as low temperatures could lead to increased healthcare service usage.
Flu Cases and Health Precautions
In a positive development, flu cases in England are on the decline, according to the latest data from the UKHSA. However, Dr. Jamie Lopez-Bernal, an infectious diseases expert, cautions that the virus remains a threat and could rebound in the new year. He emphasizes the importance of simple preventive measures, such as regular handwashing and wearing face coverings in indoor public spaces, to curb the spread of flu and other winter viruses.
Travel and Traffic Expectations
With Christmas travel expected to peak on Christmas Eve, the RAC advises motorists to plan their journeys carefully. Traffic is anticipated to be heaviest on major routes like the M25 and M5 between 1 pm and 7 pm. Drivers are encouraged to set out earlier to avoid congestion.
As the UK navigates the festive season, the combination of cold weather and flu concerns highlights the need for vigilance and preparedness to ensure a safe and healthy holiday period.
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Scenario Analysis
Looking ahead, the UK's cold snap and flu situation could have several implications. If temperatures remain low, there may be increased pressure on healthcare services, particularly in regions under the cold-health alert. The UKHSA's warnings serve as a reminder of the importance of community support for vulnerable populations during winter.
The decline in flu cases is encouraging, but the potential for a resurgence in the new year necessitates ongoing public health vigilance. Continued adherence to preventive measures will be crucial in mitigating the impact of flu and other respiratory illnesses.
As travel peaks during the festive period, road safety and traffic management will be key to ensuring smooth journeys. Authorities may need to monitor weather conditions closely to provide timely updates and advice to travelers.
As the UK braces for a chilly Christmas, the Met Office and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have issued warnings and advice to the public. A yellow cold-health alert has been announced for south-west England from 6 pm on Christmas Day until noon on 27 December, highlighting potential risks to vulnerable individuals due to plummeting temperatures.
Weather Forecast and Health Alerts
While the dream of a white Christmas remains elusive, with only a slight chance of snow in the south-west, the Met Office predicts a frosty morning for many on 25 December. Temperatures are expected to hover around 6C to 7C, with a biting easterly wind making it feel even colder. Becky Mitchell, a Met Office meteorologist, noted that while the weather is colder than average, it is not unusual for this time of year.
The UKHSA's alert underscores the increased risk to life for vulnerable people, particularly the elderly and those with multiple health conditions. The agency advises taking precautions to protect against the cold, as low temperatures could lead to increased healthcare service usage.
Flu Cases and Health Precautions
In a positive development, flu cases in England are on the decline, according to the latest data from the UKHSA. However, Dr. Jamie Lopez-Bernal, an infectious diseases expert, cautions that the virus remains a threat and could rebound in the new year. He emphasizes the importance of simple preventive measures, such as regular handwashing and wearing face coverings in indoor public spaces, to curb the spread of flu and other winter viruses.
Travel and Traffic Expectations
With Christmas travel expected to peak on Christmas Eve, the RAC advises motorists to plan their journeys carefully. Traffic is anticipated to be heaviest on major routes like the M25 and M5 between 1 pm and 7 pm. Drivers are encouraged to set out earlier to avoid congestion.
As the UK navigates the festive season, the combination of cold weather and flu concerns highlights the need for vigilance and preparedness to ensure a safe and healthy holiday period.
What this might mean
Looking ahead, the UK's cold snap and flu situation could have several implications. If temperatures remain low, there may be increased pressure on healthcare services, particularly in regions under the cold-health alert. The UKHSA's warnings serve as a reminder of the importance of community support for vulnerable populations during winter.
The decline in flu cases is encouraging, but the potential for a resurgence in the new year necessitates ongoing public health vigilance. Continued adherence to preventive measures will be crucial in mitigating the impact of flu and other respiratory illnesses.
As travel peaks during the festive period, road safety and traffic management will be key to ensuring smooth journeys. Authorities may need to monitor weather conditions closely to provide timely updates and advice to travelers.
