A YELLOW cold-health alert has been issued across the South West.

The alert has been issued by the UK Health Security Agency and the Met Office, who warn of cold temperatures from 9am today (Saturday, January 6) to noon on Friday, January 12.

Widespread frosts and lower temperatures than normal are expected.

Here's what to expect:

  • Observed increase in mortality, particularly for those aged 65 or over or with underlying health conditions;
  • Increased demand for remote social health care services;
  • Impact on services delivered due to effects on workforce;
  • Increased risk for vulnerable people.

The cold weather may also have an impact on travel.

A spokesperson from Avon and Somerset Police said: "Cold temperatures coupled with all the recent rain, particularly in Somerset & Bath and North East Somerset, may make travel conditions trickier, so please take care when out and about."