An Arctic blast bringing snow blizzards and ice has left the UK facing health impacts that could put the whole population “at risk”.

Amber severe weather warnings for snow and icehave been issued by the Met Office with numerous other yellow warnings across the United Kingdom. Meteorologists are warning of ‘days and days of snow’ to come, with up to 40cm ofsnow forecastfor some areas in the far north.

High winds are likely to bring blizzard conditions, raising the risk of travel chaos, power cuts and danger to life and property, according to the weather service. Surrey woke up to blizzards on Friday and snow caused delays of up to 45 minutes for departures from Birmingham Airport due to snow.

• Snow falls across UK - everything you need to know about Met Office amber weather warning

• DWP claimants urged to check bank accounts for 'XB' bonus on Friday

An amber cold-health alert has also been expanded to all regions of England until Tuesday. These rare warnings are issued in situations that could potentially put the whole population at risk. The NHS may see increased demand on GPs and ambulances and travel disruption is also likely as the country heads back to work after Christmas.

Dr Paul Coleman, Consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA, said: “The weather is forecast to be very cold across England over the coming few days. Low temperatures like these can have serious impacts on the health of some people, particularly older people and those with serious health conditions.

“Exposure to cold can lead to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections. It is therefore really important, as the colder weather sets in, to check in on friends, family and neighbours that are most vulnerable.”

Forecasters warn this weekend it could be “bitterly cold” with temperatures plunging to minus 3 to minus 4. The Met Office’s Jonathan Vautrey “It’s going to be feeling cold for all of us, with temperatures struggling into low single figures for most. There will be places in the north that might not see much above freezing. A very cold few days to come for all of us.”

Met Office forecaster Neil Armstrong predicts the cold spell "could last well into next week " and "wintry hazards will continue with more weather warnings likely". People are being urged to plan routes carefully and to pack essentials in your car in the event of delays. Key items to bring include warm clothing, water, a blanket and ice-scraper.

Drivers are being warned to take extra care and to ‘stay home in the warm’. But for those having to make essential journeys, Tony Rich from the AA told BBC Breakfast, they are expecting mayhem on Monday.

He said: “We are going to call it Manic Monday and that’s exactly what we think it is going to be. We are expecting an increase of around 30 to 40 per cent in normal workload. We have vehicles that have been parked all over Christmas and haven't been used so what we are saying is if you can use the weekend to get your vehicle running…”

He urged people to check oil, battery and coolant, adding: “Nobody likes going back to work after Christmas anyway but what you don’t want to do is start Monday, go out and your car doesn’t start.”

The temperature plunge has led to warnings to keep your pets safe in the cold weather, as they too are at risk of hypothermia. The RSPCA says pets can shiver when they are exposed to low temperatures for too long. This is more noticeable in smaller and short-haired breeds.

The PDSA veterinary charity advises giving dogs and cats extra blankets for their beds over the winter months and adding a few more spaces where they can curl up around the home. Raising their beds off the ground can keep older dogs away from draughts, while cats may like playing or resting in high-up dens or on climbing posts. Experts recommend extra playtime to make sure pets keep active if they are spending less time outside. Indoor toys can help.

Your pet may want to eat more to help keep their body temperature up. At the same time, they may also want to drink less, but make sure they have constant access to fresh drinking water to avoid the risk of dehydration.

It is still recommended they are taken for a walk but with a coat if possible and owners should be cautious when letting dogs off the lead in the snow, and supervise them closely as hazards may be hidden.