A cold weather health alert has been issued across Kent, with authorities warning there could be a “greater risk to life” for vulnerable people.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued the yellow cold weather health alert for the south east this week, warning that the conditions could be dangerous, particularly for the elderly.

The yellow alert came into place yesterday and is set to last until 6pm on Saturday.

Temperatures are set to peak at around 5C during the daytime in Kent this week - but are expected to plunge below freezing overnight.

Medway Council has put its severe weather emergency protocol in place. This means it is working with the partner agencies to get people sleeping rough into emergency shelters.

People sleeping rough are encouraged to call Kingsley House in Gillingham, on 01634 333600 or Freephone 0808 1641444 before 5pm today to access support.

Kent County Council has also confirmed the gritters will be out treating the roads from 8.30pm.

Dan Suri, chief meteorologist at the Met Office, said: “An area of low pressure slides its way eastwards on Monday night.

“The associated frontal system, marking the boundary between cold air in the north and milder conditions to the south, will bring disruptive snow to some areas between Monday evening and Tuesday morning.

“This is likely to coincide with rush hour, leading to disruption to some transport routes across a central swathe of the UK on Tuesday morning.

“It will also be windy in the far south.”

Elsewhere in the country, amber alerts are in place in the east and north of England, midlands, and Yorkshire and the Humber.

Dr Agostinho Sousa, from the UKHSA, said: “This is the first amber Cold Weather Health Alert of the season, but we can expect more as we approach winter, and it is vital to check in on vulnerable friends, family and neighbours to ensure they are well prepared for the onset of cold weather.

“Particularly if they are elderly or otherwise at increased risk.”

Charities have warned of the impact of the cold weather on society’s most vulnerable people as the UK experiences what the Met Office has called “the first taste of winter”.

Age UK director Caroline Abrahams said the charity was worried that the loss of the Winter Fuel Payment has caused many older people to be “extra fearful” about turning on their heating this winter.

“With high energy bills and food prices it is understandable that some may think they have to cut back on food and turn their heating off, but prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can have a serious impact on an older person’s health, especially if they are already trying to manage existing illnesses,” she said.

“The cold raises blood pressure, which in turn increases the risk of a heart attack or stroke and breathing in cold air can also increase the risk, and impact, of serious illnesses like flu and pneumonia.”

Ms Abrahams said it is “vital” that older people stay “fit, warm and well if they can” by having hot food and drinks throughout the day, wrapping up warm and sleeping with the windows closed.

KCC director of public health, Dr Anjan Ghosh has also warned people in Kent to “be prepared”.

He said: “Keeping informed and following commonsense advice will help you and your loved ones stay safe and well when temperatures fall.

"If you can, please keep looking out for vulnerable family, friends and neighbours and if you are struggling with the cost of living, please visit kent.gov to find out what help is available."

Dan Watkins, KCC cabinet member for adult social care and public health, added: “If you are worried about someone’s health in cold weather and unsure which service to use, visit the Stop, Think, Choose website.

“Winter is always a busy time for the NHS, so knowing the right place to go eases pressure on health services – and means you get the right help faster.