The plans will be continually monitored so NHS Tayside can react quickly if there is a sudden surge in patients as a result of the weather.

But the health board is also supporting a national advertising campaign encouraging responsible use of the NHS during the winter months so those most in need of help can receive it first.

The campaign encourages people to ask their pharmacist for advice on treatments, to only use out of hours services in an emergency and for people on repeat medicine to make sure their doctor gives a prescription to cover holiday periods.

Mrs Singers also made a plea for elderly and vulnerable people to take precautions by getting a flu jab from their GP.

She said, “The forecast of a severe winter could lead to increased numbers of falls and general health issues which would put extra demands on the service.

“There is also a forecast of higher levels of flu and viral infections, so we would encourage everyone over 65 or suffering from conditions such as diabetes and asthma to contact their GP and get their flu jab.

“In Tayside, we have plans in place which are continually monitored to make sure we are in a position to manage increased numbers of patients over the winter period if we have to.”

NHS Scotland Chief Executive, Kevin Woods, said, “Every year, NHS Scotland actively plans for the pressures on services that winter can bring and thorough preparations have been made to meet these challenges.

“There has been a significant increase in overall investment to NHS Boards this year and an increased capacity in terms of beds and staffing.

“NHS24 and boards have also worked to improve their capacity to deal with out-of-hours and public holiday calls.

“But winter pressures happen — and this year the cold weather warning means the NHS may face more pressure than for several years.

“The public can and do play an important part in helping to ensure these pressures do not cause significant disruption.

“It asks individuals to do a few simple and sensible things to ease the pressure — helping the NHS get help to those who need it most this winter.”

Deputy Chief Medical Officer Professor, Peter Donnelly, added, “We all have a responsibility to look after our health and look out for others at this time of year.

“During the short winter days try and stay active and get outside in daylight if possible to ward off the effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder.

“In bad weather, take sensible precautions to avoid falls and fractures.

“In particularly cold weather, it is important to consider hypothermia. Remember alcohol can contribute to lowering your core body temperature so use common sense in terms of what you wear and how much you drink.”