A yellow cold health alert covering the North West and West Midlands came into force at 9am on Thursday, lasting until 12pm on Saturday.

The cold health alert, issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), is the first of the winter season. Other regions in England are not currently affected.

Temperatures are predicted to fall below average by Thursday and Friday, with some parts of the country expected to see frost and cold winds.

Health leaders have encouraged people to check on their loved ones and neighbours, saying that low temperatures can lead to a spike in the use of health and care services.

Experts added that colder weather can also result in increased risk for over-65s and people with certain health conditions, such as heart and lung problems.

Dr Anya Gopfert, consultant in public health at UKHSA, said: “This is the first cold health alert of the winter, but we can expect more as we move further into the season.

“Cold weather can have a serious impact on the health of some people, including those aged 65 and over and those with pre-existing health conditions, so it is vital to check in on friends, family and neighbours who are most vulnerable.

“We’re also reminding people to take simple steps to stay warm and look after their health as temperatures begin to fall.

“Keeping homes heated where possible and dressing warmly can help people stay safe and well during colder weather.”

The Met Office said colder conditions were expected to move into the north by Wednesday, while snow showers were forecast in northern Scotland overnight Wednesday into Thursday.

It added that colder air will spread further south across the UK through Thursday and Friday.

Forecasters said temperatures are predicted to fall below average widely by Thursday and particularly Friday, with frost expected. The far north east will also feel particularly cold in stronger winds, they said.

Temperatures are set to drop to -1C in areas including Hereford, Kendal, Manchester, Yeovil, Stoke-on-Trent and Preston by 6am on Friday, 13 November.

Meanwhile, the Met Office’s forecast for Saturday to Monday currently reads: “Saturday starts cold and frosty with sunshine for many, though cloudier in the north and west. Sunday and Monday bring more unsettled conditions, with rain and hill snow possible.”