The Met Office has issued a warning for millions of hay fever sufferers across the UK, describing the upcoming conditions as "not great news." Pollen levels are forecast to be high or very high across large parts of England and Wales from Tuesday, June 16, through Friday, June 19.
Affected Areas and Duration
In a post on X, the Met Office stated: "Not great news for hay fever sufferers," noting that southern and eastern areas would experience "high to very high pollen levels this week." This affects over 16 million people in the UK who suffer from hay fever, according to official GOV.UK data. Many individuals sensitive to pollen may see an increase in symptoms during this period.
Regional Variations
Further north and west, the outlook is more mixed. The Met Office indicated that pollen levels would fluctuate with unsettled weather, though occasional spikes remain possible. Pollen levels are typically highest during warm, dry, and breezy conditions, which allow pollen particles to travel further and remain airborne longer.
Health Impacts and Symptoms
According to the NHS, hay fever affects millions of people in the UK annually. The condition occurs when the immune system reacts to pollen as a harmful substance. Common symptoms include sneezing, itchy eyes, a runny or blocked nose, and an itchy throat. Some individuals also experience headaches, tiredness, and difficulty sleeping when pollen counts are high.
Grass Pollen as Main Trigger
Grass pollen is currently the primary trigger across much of the UK. Allergy UK reports that around 95% of hay fever sufferers react to grass pollen, making this one of the most challenging periods of the year for many people.
Forecast Methodology
The Met Office produces its pollen forecasts using weather data such as temperature, humidity, wind speed, and rainfall. These factors influence how much pollen is released and how widely it spreads.
Recommendations for Sufferers
The NHS advises keeping windows closed during high pollen periods, especially in the early morning and evening when counts peak. People may benefit from showering after outdoor activities and taking antihistamines if recommended by a pharmacist or GP. For local conditions, the latest forecasts are available on the Met Office website, which updates its pollen outlook regularly.
