Agnes MaxwellThe Met Office issued a heavy snow warning for large parts of the UK on 23 March 2026, with up to 10,000 searches recorded in a single day — making it the most searched weather topic of the week. Forecasters are predicting significant snowfall across northern England, Scotland, and parts of Wales, with temperatures expected to drop sharply below zero overnight.
Why a Late-Season Cold Snap is More Dangerous Than You Think
Late March snow catches people off guard. Central heating systems may already have been turned down, winter medications have run out, and many people have put away their cold-weather precautions. According to the Met Office, this combination of unpreparedness and genuine cold is what makes March cold snaps disproportionately risky for health — particularly for older adults, young children, and people with pre-existing conditions.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reports that cold-related hospital admissions tend to spike not in the coldest months of January and February, but during sudden temperature drops in March and October, when people are least prepared. In 2025, a similar late-March cold snap resulted in a 12% increase in A&E admissions for respiratory complaints across NHS trusts in the north of England.
The 5 Health Risks Doctors Are Warning About
Hypothermia is a real risk, even indoors. Many people associate hypothermia with being stranded outdoors, but it can develop in poorly heated homes. Body temperature drops below 35°C when the body cannot generate heat fast enough. Early signs include intense shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and pale or cold skin. According to NHS guidelines, anyone showing these signs requires immediate medical attention.
Heart attacks and strokes increase in cold weather. Cold temperatures cause blood vessels to narrow, which raises blood pressure and makes the heart work harder. The British Heart Foundation notes that hospital admissions for heart attacks increase by approximately 7% for every 10°C drop in temperature. If you have a cardiovascular condition, keeping warm is not merely a comfort — it is medical advice.
Respiratory infections spread more easily in cold, dry air. Cold air dries the mucous membranes in the nose and throat, reducing their ability to trap viruses and bacteria. People with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other lung conditions should have their inhaler or medication reviewed before cold weather intensifies.
Falls and fractures are more common on icy surfaces. The NHS reports that hip fractures — which can be life-altering for older adults — increase significantly during periods of ice and snow. Black ice is particularly dangerous because it is nearly invisible. Wearing appropriate footwear and avoiding unnecessary outdoor trips during severe weather is strongly advised.
Carbon monoxide poisoning risks increase. When people seal up their homes to stay warm, they inadvertently reduce ventilation. If heating systems are poorly maintained, carbon monoxide — an odourless, colourless gas — can build up to dangerous levels. The UK charity CO-Awareness reports a seasonal spike in poisoning cases every winter, many of which are preventable with a functioning CO detector.
Who is Most at Risk?
General practitioners (GPs) and emergency doctors identify the following groups as most vulnerable during cold snaps:
- Adults over 65: The body's ability to regulate temperature decreases with age, and older people are less likely to feel the cold until it becomes dangerous
- Infants and young children: They lose body heat rapidly and cannot communicate discomfort effectively
- People with heart or lung conditions: Cold weather directly stresses these organ systems
- People taking certain medications: Some antihypertensives, diuretics, and psychiatric medications can affect the body's heat regulation
- People experiencing homelessness or fuel poverty: The risk of serious cold-related illness is substantially higher
If you are in a high-risk group or care for someone who is, this is the right time to speak to a doctor about specific precautions for the coming days.
What Doctors Recommend You Do Before the Snow Arrives
Review your home heating now. Make sure your boiler is functioning and that your home can reach and maintain at least 18°C in living areas and 16°C in bedrooms, as recommended by the NHS. If you are unsure about your heating system, contact a qualified engineer before the cold arrives.
Check your medications. If you take regular medication for a heart, lung, or circulatory condition, check that you have at least a week's supply. Pharmacies and GP surgeries can experience higher demand during cold snaps.
Know the signs of serious cold-related illness. Learn the early symptoms of hypothermia, heart attack, and stroke. The FAST test (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) remains the quickest way to identify a stroke and is worth reviewing before an emergency arises.
Prepare a small winter kit. A basic kit should include a working thermometer, extra blankets, warm non-perishable food, and a fully charged phone. These items are particularly important for older adults living alone.
Limit unnecessary outdoor exposure. If you do need to go outside, wear several thin layers rather than one thick layer, cover your head and hands, and avoid icy surfaces where possible.
Medical disclaimer: This article provides general health information only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have specific health concerns or pre-existing conditions, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.
When to Call a Doctor
Contact your GP or call NHS 111 if you or someone in your care develops:
- Intense, uncontrollable shivering followed by a sudden stop in shivering (a warning sign that hypothermia is advancing)
- Confusion, drowsiness, or difficulty speaking
- Chest pain, especially combined with shortness of breath or arm pain
- A significant fall with possible injury
If you are uncertain whether a symptom requires attention, a consultation with a GP or online doctor can help you assess the situation quickly. Expert Zoom connects you with qualified medical professionals who can provide guidance without the need to leave your home — particularly useful during severe weather conditions.
The Met Office heavy snow warning is in effect across multiple regions from late 23 March 2026. Staying informed and prepared is the single most effective step you can take to protect your health.
