Senior doctors at Epsom and St Helier hospitals are warning people to stay warm and well this week, as the weather forecast predicts snow and a dangerous cold snap.

The Met Office have issued yellow and amber weather warnings in Surrey and London, with temperatures set to regularly drop below zero for the next few days.

In the early hours of tomorrow morning (Wednesday 28) there is at least a 40 per cent chance of snow and the temperature is predicted to drop to - 4 degrees. 

Dr Ruth Charlton, Joint Medical Director, said: “Although winter weather and snow can be fun, the cold weather can have an impact on people’s health and is often associated with an increase in illnesses and injuries.

“It can also be a challenging season for people with heart or respiratory problems as symptoms may worsen during a cold spell and for several days afterwards.

“Severe cold snaps can have dramatic effects on everyday life, especially for those people who are already vulnerable because of their age, illness or disability.

“But there are some simple precautions that you can take to keep the effects of the cold weather at bay.”

Tips for the cold weather are:

1. Keep plenty of water, food and warm clothing (blankets, sleeping bags) in the boot of your car if you have to go out; this will mean that if you do become stranded, you will be able to sustain yourself and keep warm until help can arrive

2. Wear several light layers of warm clothes (rather than one chunky layer)

3. Wear practical (ideally waterproof and insulated) footwear with good grip when walking in the snow and ice

4. Check in regularly with elderly and vulnerable neighbours, friends and family who may become snowed in and unable to get food

5. Keep warm - try to keep your house heated to at least 18 degrees (staying warm will help you stay healthy) and this includes your bedroom

6. Draw your curtains at dusk and keep your doors closed to block out draughts and keep the heat in

7. Have regular hot drinks and eat at least one hot meal a day, eating regularly helps keep energy levels up during winter

8. Keep as active in your home as possible.

The Met Office also advises putting grit or cat litter on paths and driveways to reduce the risk of slipping and you should wait until the roads have been gritted if travelling by car.