A COLD weather alert has been issued for the Midlands.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued the alert due to the risk of freezing conditions and prolonged periods of fog in the coming days.

The alert was issued to central and southern England and comes as the Met Office has warned of cold weather in the West Midlands from 6pm this evening (January 13) to 9am on Monday January 17.

The UKHSA have urged people to look out for those most at risk from the effects of cold weather.

Agostinho Sousa, Consultant in Public Health Medicine at UKHSA, said: "As we continue to experience very low temperatures this winter it’s important to remember to check on those who are more vulnerable to cold weather, such as elderly or frail friends and family, especially if they live alone or with a serious illness.

"Remind those most vulnerable to heat their home to at least 18 Celsius, 64.4 Fahrenheit, particularly if they have reduced mobility, are 65 and over, or have a health condition. Should they need to go outside, it’s important for them to wear shoes with a good grip.

Met Office Deputy Chief Meteorologist Dan Rudman said: "Temperatures in central and southern England are expected to trend downwards from Thursday, with overnight minimum temperatures possibly getting to -4 °C in some rural areas, but widespread below-freezing conditions elsewhere overnight in the following days. This will result in some harsh frosts and possible freezing fog in some places.

"Temperatures will stay subdued through the next few days from Thursday in the alerted areas, with highs likely to remain in the mid-to-low single figures through the weekend, especially in places where any fog or low cloud lingers throughout the day."