Cold weather: Amber health alerts issued ahead of snow forecast

Snow is also expected in north-east Scotland, including the Orkney and Shetland Islands, into Friday.

A wider snow and ice warning will be in place from noon on Saturday until midnight, covering most of England (except the south-west) and most of Wales.

Scotland will be under a separate snow warning from midnight on Sunday until noon on Monday.

Saturday is likely to be the coldest day, with temperatures ranging from -1°C to 2°C, along with overnight frosts.

While this colder weather with snow is typical for winter in the UK, Age UK’s director, Caroline Abrahams, has expressed concern that the government’s decision to limit winter fuel payments will affect vulnerable people. The charity has already heard from individuals “worried about what to do.”

She advises older people to take all necessary steps to stay warm, even if it means spending more on heating than they feel comfortable with. “Energy companies have an obligation to assist if you’re struggling, and local councils may offer help. It’s better to ask for support than risk your health,” she said.

The prime minister has previously stated that winter fuel payments should be targeted at those who truly need them, but noted that some pensioners may not require them due to their relative wealth. The policy aims to save £1.5 billion annually.

As a weather system moves towards the UK on Saturday, rain will collide with the colder Arctic air, turning into snow.

Initially, snow will fall in parts of southern England but will quickly change back to rain Saturday night as milder air moves in.

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