Cold weather can be dangerous, especially for older people and those with long-term conditions.

Taking simple steps early can help reduce the risk and keep people safe this winter.

People most at risk include:

  • Anyone aged 65 and over
  • People with heart or lung conditions
  • People with dementia
  • People living in poorly insulated homes or struggling with heating costs

Last year an estimated 270 deaths in the South West were linked to cold weather during winter 2024/25, according to a new report from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

Dr Paul Johnson, Chief Medical Officer at NHS Dorset said:

“Cold weather increases health risks because lower temperatures can raise blood pressure, increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes, make breathing problems worse and increase the spread of infections.

“There are some simple steps people can take to keep themselves well and warm during cold spells such as keeping hydrated with warm drinks and staying active by moving more around the home.”

The NHS advises people to take these simple steps to protect their health:

Keep your home warm

  • Heat living rooms and bedrooms to a comfortable temperature, at least 18°C if you can
  • Close curtains at dusk and reduce draughts

 Dress warmly

  • Wear several thin layers rather than one thick layer
  • Wear a hat, scarf and gloves when outside

Eat well, stay hydrated and stay active

  • Have regular hot meals and warm drinks
  • Move around regularly indoors to keep your circulation going

Protect your health

  • Take medicines as prescribed
  • Order repeat prescriptions in good time
  • Have your flu vaccination if eligible. You can find more information at staywelldorset.nhs.uk/vaccinations

Look out for others

  • Check on older neighbours, friends and relatives
  • Make sure they have food, heating and support

If you feel unwell, use NHS 111 online or call 111 for urgent advice, or contact your GP practice. For more information on who to contact if you are unwell, visit www.staywelldorset.nhs.uk.

UKHSA uses temperature data from the Met Office and daily death registrations to estimate the impact of cold weather. Death certificates do not record “cold” as a cause of death.

The Cold Mortality Monitoring Report shows that three cold spells between November 2024 and January 2025 were associated with increased deaths in the region. The most severe six-day cold spell in January 2025 accounted for 173 deaths in the South West alone.

Across England, 2,544 deaths were linked to cold weather during the same period.

The report found that:

  • Older people were most affected, especially those aged 85 and over
  • More deaths occurred in people with circulatory conditions, such as heart disease
  • Risk of death increased around five days after temperatures dropped and stayed higher for up to nine days

Read the full report on the UKHSA website.