The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) published a sobering report today, revealing that 2,544 deaths in England were directly associated with freezing weather episodes between November 2024 and January 2025. This first-of-its-kind Cold Mortality Report highlights the devastating impact of prolonged sub-zero temperatures during the most recent winter season. The data shows that the majority of these "excess deaths" occurred during three distinct cold-weather alerts when temperatures plummeted across northern and central England.
The report details how the elderly and those with pre-existing respiratory and cardiovascular conditions were the most vulnerable. According to the UKHSA, the cold weather acts as a massive physical stressor, thickening the blood and increasing the risk of strokes and heart attacks. Furthermore, the data suggests that poor housing insulation and the ongoing high cost of energy contributed to the mortality rate, as thousands of households were unable to maintain their homes at the recommended minimum temperature of 18°C.
Public health experts are calling this a "preventable tragedy," pointing to a clear correlation between cold housing and health failures. Dr. Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at the UKHSA, stated that while winter deaths are expected, the intensity of this year's figures is a cause for serious alarm. The report indicates that the regions most affected were the North East and the East Midlands, where temperatures remained below freezing for the longest consecutive periods.
In response to the findings, the government is facing renewed pressure to expand "warm home" grants and energy subsidies before the next winter season begins. Charity organizations, including Age UK, have warned that without structural changes to how the country protects its most vulnerable citizens during cold snaps, these figures will only continue to rise. The UKHSA has recommended a full review of the Cold Weather Plan for England to ensure that emergency services and local councils can provide better proactive outreach during future "Yellow" and "Amber" cold alerts.