A COLD weather alert has been issued by Public Health England as severe cold weather conditions are forecast for this week.

These cold conditions are set to continue to 9am on Friday, January 8, across the country.

In Bournemouth, temperatures are expected to reach three degrees Celsius on Thursday, January 7, which will later decrease to minus one degrees Celsius.

Public Health England is reminding people to look out for those who are vulnerable during low temperatures.

Principal Environmental Public Health Scientist at PHE, Dr Owen Landeg said: "During this cold spell we all need to be looking out for frail or older neighbours or relatives, especially those living alone or who have serious illnesses. We still need to be aware of Covid-19 safety and local restrictions, but regular phone calls or socially-distant visits on their doorstep can make all the difference."

Three degrees Celsius is also expected to be the highest temperature in Bournemouth on Friday, January 8, with lows of zero degrees.

Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office, Steve Ramsdale said: "Over the next few days temperatures are generally limited to between three to seven Celsius by day and falling widely below freezing overnight with a brisk north easterly wind making it feel even colder for many.

"Temperatures are expected to start to recover as we go through the weekend and into the start of next week."