The Met Office has issued red 'very high' pollen alerts for three UK areas over the coming days, with eight additional amber 'high' alerts in force. The alerts affect the East Midlands, east of England, and London and south east England, where hay fever sufferers are likely to experience pronounced symptoms.
More than 10 million Brits suffer from hay fever, an allergy to airborne pollen particles released by plants. The condition is typically worst between March and November. Different types of pollen—grass, weed, and tree—can trigger allergies, and individuals may be sensitive to specific varieties.
Red and Amber Alerts by Region
On Tuesday 30 June, red 'very high' alerts cover the East Midlands and east of England. Amber 'high' alerts apply to north east England, north west England, Yorkshire and Humber, West Midlands, south west England, and London and south east England.
Wednesday 1 July sees a red alert for London and south east England only. Amber alerts affect south west England, Wales, West Midlands, East Midlands, east of England, and Yorkshire and Humber.
Thursday 2 July: London and south east England remain under red alert. Amber alerts include south west England, Wales, West Midlands, East Midlands, east of England, Yorkshire and Humber, north west England, and north east England.
Friday 3 July: Red alerts for London and south east England and east of England. Amber alerts for south west England, Wales, West Midlands, East Midlands, Yorkshire and Humber, north west England, and north east England.
Saturday 4 July: Red alerts continue for London and south east England and east of England. Amber alerts for south west England, Wales, West Midlands, East Midlands, east of England, Yorkshire and Humber, and north east England.
Temperature Context
The pollen warnings come after a record-breaking heatwave last week, during which UK temperature records were smashed three days in a row. Temperatures have since cooled but are forecast to climb again next week, reaching 30°C or higher across parts of southern England.
North West England, including Greater Manchester, has been issued amber 'high' alerts on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday but no red alerts.
