High Red Pollen Alerts Issued in Wales as Dry Weather Set to Continue
By Bryana Francis
As dry weather continues to dominate the forecast in Wales and much of southern England, the Met Office has issued high red pollen warnings for the upcoming week. Hay fever sufferers in the region are bracing themselves for a challenging time ahead, as one in five people are affected by this seasonal allergy. The current forecast indicates high to very high levels of birch and ash pollen, with warnings set to remain in place from Monday through Wednesday before dropping to high levels by Thursday. Conversely, areas in the north such as Scotland and the north east of England are expected to experience lower pollen levels, with a medium pollen forecast in effect.
Hay fever, an allergic reaction to pollen, tends to peak between late March and September when warmer and windier conditions lead to higher pollen counts. Windy weather exacerbates hay fever symptoms by spreading pollen, while rainy days can offer some relief by clearing the air of pollen. The most common culprit for hay fever is grass pollen, which is disseminated through various means such as insects, wind, and weather patterns. In addition to grass pollen, tree and weed pollen can also trigger allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. Symptoms of hay fever may include sneezing, coughing, a congested or runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and headaches. Unlike a common cold, hay fever symptoms persist for weeks or even months during the spring and summer seasons.
The current pollen season is proving to be particularly challenging due to unusually high levels of tree pollen, especially from birch trees. This surge in pollen production can be attributed to the warm and dry weather conditions experienced last June, which facilitated increased pollen production. Over the long term, experts suggest that climate change may exacerbate hay fever symptoms by creating optimal conditions for pollen production and prolonging the pollen season, as evidenced by last year’s heightened pollen levels.
The Met Office’s forecast for Wales this week indicates another sunny day on Monday, with warm temperatures and very high levels of tree pollen expected. The outlook for the following days predicts dry and warm weather with plenty of sunshine, albeit cool nights with the possibility of rural frosts. Light winds are anticipated, with the potential for sea breezes in certain coastal areas.
In conclusion, hay fever sufferers in Wales and southern England are advised to take necessary precautions and monitor pollen levels closely in the coming days. By staying informed about pollen forecasts and implementing appropriate measures to manage symptoms, individuals can navigate the peak pollen season with greater ease.