State pensioners issued warning as two day snowstorm extended to 3rd day of snow

State pensioners are being warned to protect themselves against the current cold snap as more snow is forecast across the UK.

Three are currently in place up until Wednesday, affecting parts of Scotland, northern England, north Wales, the north Midlands and Northern Ireland.

The has said up to 20cm of snow could fall on higher ground in some areas, while between five and 10cm is expected on lower ground and on Tuesday afternoon, the forecaster issued a fresh warning for more ice and snow.

for much of the UK on Monday night, dropping to as low as -11.2C at Braemar in Aberdeenshire, and forecasters say the cold front will continue for much of this week, with daytime temperatures in the low single figures for most.

An has been issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) covering north and east England, the Midlands, and Yorkshire and the Humber, while yellow alerts are in force for the South East, South West and London until 6pm on Saturday.

The UKHSA has warned the cold conditions could be dangerous for vulnerable people, including those aged 65 and over and those with long-term health conditions.

It is advised that vulnerable people and the elderly heat their home to at least 18C during the cold weather as low indoor temperatures can have a serious impact on your health.

You should try to reduce any draughts in your home to prevent heat from escaping, keep your bedroom windows closed at night and draw your curtains at dusk to lock in heat.

The UKHSA also recommends keeping moving as much as possible while you are indoors and avoid sitting still for more than an hour as this can help to keep you warm.

Additionally, the Met Office has previously issued health advice for the elderly to stay healthy during a bout of snowy weather.

The forecaster said: "As we get older it becomes harder for our bodies to detect how cold we are, and it takes longer to warm up which can be bad for our health. For older people in particular, the longer the exposure to the cold, the more risk of heart attacks, strokes, pneumonia, depression, worsening arthritis and increased accidents at home (associated with loss of strength and dexterity in the hands).

"It is important to keep warm in winter both inside and outdoors. Keeping warm can help to prevent colds, flu and more serious health problems. Eating regularly helps keep you warm so try to have at least one hot meal a day along with regular hot drinks.

"If you are heading outside for a walk or maybe some gardening, wear several layers of light clothes. Remember that several thin layers of clothing will keep you warmer than one thick layer as the layers trap warm air.

"It doesn't matter what you do to keep active, as long as it's something you enjoy and keeps you moving. There is strong evidence that people who are active have a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, depression and can also reduce the risk of falling."