Severe cold and ice weather alert issued for whole of Yorkshire and the Humber until Friday

The Met Office an amber 'severe weather action' alert this morning (Monday), which requires social and healthcare services to target specific actions at high-risk groups.

There is a 90% chance of severe cold weather and icy conditions until 9am on Friday across the county, which could increase the health risks to vulnerable patients and disrupt the delivery of services.

The Met Office said: "The ongoing spell of cold weather is expected to continue this week, with northeasterly winds affecting the country.

"Average temperatures are expected to be low single figures over the coming days, with a slight downward trend through the week, especially for eastern areas.

"The Amber alert currently encompasses Northern England, but this will be reviewed though the week if the risk increases for central and southern parts of England.

"Widespread overnight frosts are expected, along with showers; these mainly focused in northern and eastern coastal areas.

"Where showers move inland, they are likely to turn wintry, mainly over hills.

"The main hazardous conditions over this period are from severe cold and icy conditions.

"No disruptive snowfall is expected in major population centres at this time."

The Met Office has issued the following advice:

- Look out for friends and family who may be vulnerable to the cold, and ensure they have access to warm food and drinks and are managing to heat their homes adequately.

- Try to maintain indoor temperatures to at least 18°C, particularly if you are not mobile, have a long-term illness or are 65 or over.

- Avoid exposing yourself to cold or icy outdoor conditions if you are at a higher risk of cold-related illness or falls and stay up to date with the latest weather forecasts on the Met Office website.