Winter weather warning

The Met office has issued a Level 3 warning about severe cold weather for East Sussex from today (Monday January 30) until Friday February 3.

It means that Hailsham could receive some extremely cold weather including snow which could mean disruption to local schools and transport.

Check out East Sussex County Council's website for the latest information in your area.

This weather could increase the health risks to vulnerable patients and disrupt the delivery of services.

Milder conditions are likely to arrive during Saturday and Saturday night.

Wednesday and Thursday are likely to be the coldest days, with the minimum as low as -6C and daytime maximum at no more than 2C or 3C.

A Level 3 Alert for cold weather is given by the Met Office when we experience weather which breaches any of the three thresholds, including mean temperatures below 2C for 48 hours or longer, heavy snow or widespread ice.

This requires social and healthcare services to target specific actions at high-risk groups. Prolonged periods of cold weather can be dangerous, especially for the very young, very old or those with chronic diseases.

If you want more information about how cold weather can affect your health visit www.nhs.uk.

If you are concerned about your health or somebody you care for, please contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647, www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk or your local pharmacist.