The Met Office has urged UK households to stockpile antihistamines ahead of Wednesday, July 9, as a fresh batch of red pollen warnings takes effect. Grass and weed pollen levels are forecast to be high or very high for the rest of the week, affecting hay fever sufferers nationwide.
Regional Pollen Warnings
Even Scotland will not be spared, with high warnings in Edinburgh from Wednesday turning to very high by Friday. In London and Exeter, very high warnings will be in place from Wednesday. Leeds in West Yorkshire will see high levels on Wednesday and very high on Thursday and Friday. Northern Ireland will experience high warnings all three days.
Met Office Advice
The Met Office stated: “Hay fever sufferers, it might be time to stock up on those antihistamines. Grass and weed pollen levels are forecast to be high to very high this week.” In its guidance, the Met Office notes that around 30 different types of pollen can cause hay fever, with grass pollen being the most common in late spring and early summer, affecting most sufferers. Tree pollen peaks in spring and affects about 25% of people, while weed pollen can be released from early spring to late autumn.
Pollen Count and Symptoms
Hay fever symptoms typically appear when the pollen count exceeds 50 grains per cubic metre of air. Weather conditions influence pollen release and spread: humid and windy days facilitate spread, while rain can clear the air. On sunny days, pollen counts are highest in the early evening, increasing the likelihood of symptoms.
