Cold health alerts begin as surge of Arctic air sees temperatures plummet

Northerly winds are sweeping across the UK, bringing cold air from the Arctic and some of the most widespread low temperatures of the autumn so far. Thursday afternoon's highs will remain in single digits for most whilst overnight lows will widely fall below freezing, potentially dropping to -7C. Strong winds will bring a significant wind chill, especially on northern and eastern coasts, so it will feel colder than the reading on the thermometer would suggest.

Whilst the cold weather will come with sunshine in most areas, showers will also feature in northern parts of the UK, some of which could be wintry over high ground. The yellow alerts warn of minor impacts on the health and social care sector, with increased use of healthcare services by vulnerable people - who face a greater risk to life. It is a relatively clear air mass meaning plenty of sunshine and far less of the mist and fog that has plagued some areas recently.

The strongest winds will be in north-east Scotland where gusts will touch 50-60mph for a time.