The Met Office has issued a rare amber cold weather alert as temperatures are expected to drop rapidly this week. The warning says there is a 90 percent probability of severe cold weather and icy conditions in some parts of England.
The warning will be in place between 6pm on Wednesday (December 7) until 9am on Monday (December 12). The amber warning is a level three alert, it covers all of Leeds and other parts of the county, the Met Office says it poses increased risks to vulnerable groups and those who require social and healthcare services.
They have asked that people look out for friends and family who may be vulnerable to the cold, ensuring they have access to warm food and drinks and their homes are heated adequately.
Read More: Exact date snow is set to fall this week as Leeds forecasters predict cold weather
The Met Office forecast said: "Rather cold conditions are expected to turn colder across much of the UK later Wednesday and through Thursday as air from the Arctic spreads south across the country. Very cold nights are expected, with widespread frosts and potentially severe frosts.
"Daytime temperatures persisting near or just above freezing, with overnight temperatures continuing to trend downwards. Wintry showers are also likely to affect some coasts, perhaps pushing into some inland areas at times, bringing a risk of icy patches."
The warning comes as the Met Office has forecast snow hitting parts of the UK this week. Scotland is likely to face the first snowfall of the season over the next couple of days, thanks to a wintry storm named the 'Troll of Trondheim'.
The Met Office said: "Showers will fall as snow to low levels on Wednesday. Accumulations of 2-5 cm are possible at lower levels, with 5-10 cm above 200 metres, with some drifting and blizzard conditions in the strong northerly winds."
If you want more information about how cold weather can affect your health you can visit the NHS website. If you are concerned about your health or somebody you care for, advice can be obtained from the winter health section on the NHS website, NHS 111 or your local pharmacist.
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