Met Office warns of severe cold weather in Northumberland

The Met Office has issued the Level 2 (alert and readiness) warning from noon today until noon on Friday, predicting a 70% probability of severe cold weather.

It says: "This weather could increase the health risks to vulnerable patients and disrupt the delivery of services. Please refer to the national Cold Weather Plan and your Trust's emergency plan for appropriate preventive action."

The authority's advice is: "Prolonged periods of cold weather can be dangerous, especially for the very young, very old or those with chronic diseases.

"If you want more information about how cold weather can affect your health please visit www.nhs.uk. If you are concerned about your health or somebody you care for, advice can be obtained from www.nhs.uk/winterhealth, NHS 111 or your local pharmacist."