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Source CHRISTMAS shoppers and partygoers are being warned of freezing weather this weekend. Temperatures are expected to plunge below freezing today, prompting the Met Office to issue a level two cold weather alert. Forecasters have said, once windchill is factored in, it could feel as cold as -5C. This weekend is expected to be one of the busiest times for the city's pubs and nightclubs as thousands of people celebrate the festive season. Karen Marshall, chair of Hull Trinity Street Angels, who helps those who become vulnerable on Friday and Saturday evenings, said: "In the build-up to Christmas, it does get busier with Christmas parties and people venture out not wanting to cover their pretty dresses in a big coat. "The Street Angels do carry foil safety blankets, but I would encourage people to take a coat. Take an extra quid with you and then you can put it in a cloakroom." Dr Stephen Morton, Public Health England centre director in this region, is urging people to make sure they stay warm. "Cold does kill, even in places where the temperatures aren't at their lowest," he said. "Our advice is that when indoors, have plenty of warm food and drinks to stay warm and try to maintain indoor temperatures to at least 18C, particularly if you are not mobile, have long-term illness or are 65 or over. "If you need to go out, wear lots of thin layers and shoes with a slip-resistant grip to prevent any accidental falls." Both East Riding and Hull City Councils' gritting teams say they are prepared for the cold weather. Councillor Martin Mancey, Hull City Council's portfolio holder with responsibility of the city's roads, said: "Our dedicated streetscene team monitor the weather on a daily basis and act as and when needed to ensure our roads and footpaths are accessible and safe for pedestrians and motorists." Nigel Leighton, director of environment and neighbourhood services at East Riding Council, said: "The council has been preparing for winter since the summer and has full salt stocks at its barns, with orders in place to replenish these as supplies are used. "We advise motorists to drive to the conditions, allow extra time and stay on treated roads, wherever possible." The winter period also places additional pressure on hospital services. Earlier this week, Hull Royal Infirmary saw a rise in the number of people having to be admitted to hospital. Jonathan Wood, operations director for Hull and East Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust, said: "To ensure we can concentrate on the very sickest and most vulnerable patients, we ask for everyone's co-operation throughout the winter and urge them to explore local alternatives for healthcare advice and treatment." 
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