The Met Office has issued a Level 2 alert for the West Midlands, saying there is a 60% risk of severe cold weather and widespread frost between 6am tomorrow (Friday 14 December) and midnight on Saturday night across the region.
Councillor Hazel Malcolm, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing said: "When the mercury in the thermometer is plunging, it's important that people keep an eye on the weather forecast and plan the day around it.
"Although this particular cold spell is only forecast to be with us for a day or two, it is going to be keenly felt as it's the first cold snap of the season.
"Icy weather can cause roads and pavements to become slippery and hazardous when travelling outside. People should take extra care when they are out and about, dress warmly and wear non-slip shoes to limit any falls.
"It is important that people stay warm when they are indoors, particularly if they're aged 65 or over, or have long term health conditions such as heart trouble or respiratory problems. The home should be kept at a minimum of 18 degrees centigrade, and wearing lots of thin layers and eating hot food will help people stay warm.
"I'd also urge people to look out for friends and neighbours who may be vulnerable to the cold and may feel isolated or scared to venture out. Please make sure they have access to warm food and drinks, have sufficient stocks of any medicines they may be on, and are managing to heat their homes adequately."
Frank Saunders, Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office, said: "It's going to be cold over the next few days, with temperatures for many parts limited to between 3 and 6°C through the day. Many of us will wake up to a frost on Friday and Saturday morning, before wet and windy weather moves in later on Saturday."
Type=links;Linkid=7673;Title=Stay Well This Winter;Target=_blank; contains useful advice on staying warm and keeping healthy during the cold weather.
- released: Thursday 13 December, 2018