North Wales health board declares ‘internal critical incident’ amid snow warning
Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has issued advice to patients as severe weather is forecast to affect North Wales over the coming days.
The Met Office has issued yellow warnings for snow, ice and cold temperatures across the region from Thursday evening into Friday morning. Some higher areas may see up to 20 centimetres of snow, creating hazardous conditions and travel disruption.
The Health Board said it was putting plans in place to ensure services are supported and disruption is kept to a minimum.
A spokesperson said the board was “proactively treating this as an internal critical incident to ensure we can provide the necessary support to our services, staff and patients and keep any disruption to a minimum.”
Hospitals across North Wales remain “incredibly busy” as staff manage ongoing winter pressures, including seasonal infections and respiratory viruses, alongside the effects of last weekend’s bad weather.
The Health Board is advising people to plan ahead for appointments and to attend unless told otherwise. Patients will be contacted directly if any clinics or appointments need to be rescheduled.
Residents are being asked to make use of local health services such as NHS 111 Wales, pharmacies and minor injury units for non-urgent care.
The Health Board also warned of icy pavements and an increased risk of slips and falls, urging people to wrap up warmly and wear suitable footwear. It encouraged residents to check on older neighbours or those living alone.
Meanwhile, the Welsh Ambulance Service has also issued a warning as Storm Goretti is expected to bring heavy snow and strong winds.
Judith Bryce, Assistant Director of Operations, said: “The NHS has already been under significant pressure since the New Year, and now we’re gearing up for the impact of Storm Goretti.
“Cold weather naturally leads to an increase in falls, breathing difficulties and road traffic collisions, so it’s important that you take steps to reduce the risk of becoming ill or injured, and help us, help you.
“Unfortunately, severe weather means it may take longer to reach some patients, but if you have a genuine life-threatening emergency, please do continue to call us.
“Above all, please be kind and considerate to our people who are working around the clock to provide the best possible care for communities in Wales, both in our contact centres and on the frontline.”
The Welsh Ambulance Service advised people to stock up on essential medication, only travel if necessary, wear appropriate footwear, check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours, and use NHS 111 Wales for non-emergencies.
Storm Goretti is expected to bring rain initially, with an increasing risk of snow overnight into Friday, particularly over higher ground in Flintshire. While not all areas will see lying snow, conditions could become locally disruptive, especially for early travel.
Check live fuel prices near you before you set off.
Spotted something? Got a story? Email news (@) deeside.com
NEW: Add Deeside.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
Latest News
