A visually impactful weather map indicates that people in various UK regions will face significant challenges with hay fever this week. Pollen levels are on the rise, with ash pollen being a major concern in southern counties. The upcoming birch pollen season will further aggravate the situation for hay fever sufferers in the UK.
According to the Met Office, pollen levels are expected to be high on Wednesday in the East Midlands, East of England, Southeast of England, Southwest of England, and the West Midlands. Wales is projected to have a medium threat level on the same day.
The recent low threat levels, particularly in the East of England and East Midlands, were attributed to reduced humidity that led to temperatures dropping significantly in certain areas, like to 2.5C near Dover, Kent, on Friday.
However, temperatures are anticipated to increase, reaching 22C in some locations over the next couple of weeks, posing challenges for individuals with hay fever. With an estimated 13 million hay fever sufferers in the UK, many have already expressed concerns about an earlier onset of the allergy season compared to previous years.
As pollen levels are set to be elevated on Wednesday, the Met Office advises hay fever sufferers to take precautions to minimize exposure and alleviate symptoms. Recommendations include wearing protective gear like sunglasses, masks, or hats, and changing clothes and showering after outdoor activities.
Birch pollen, active between March and June with peak levels in April and May, can trigger asthma and rhinoconjunctivitis. Symptoms typically manifest when the pollen count surpasses 50 grains per cubic meter of air. Weather conditions play a crucial role in pollen dispersion, with higher levels observed on humid and windy days.
The long-term forecast from the Met Office suggests a division between the northwest and southeast regions of the UK, with the northwest expecting unsettled weather and the southeast experiencing drier conditions due to high pressure influence. Overall temperatures are projected to be near or slightly above normal.
