A ‘Pollen Bomb’ is Expected to Hit Eight Parts of the UK This Weekend
The Met Office predicts a surge in pollen levels that will reach ‘very high’ in three regions of the UK this weekend, triggering hay fever symptoms for millions of people. The phenomenon has been coined a ‘pollen bomb’ set to cause discomfort for those with allergies. The release of tree pollen is anticipated due to the favourable weather conditions. Allergy expert Max Wiseberg notes that warm, dry, and sunny weather provides the ideal environment for trees to distribute their pollen, especially during the peak tree pollen season in April.
Wiseberg highlighted that around a quarter of hay fever sufferers are allergic to tree pollen, making this upcoming period particularly challenging for them. The recent high pollen counts were just a preview of what is to come, with the anticipated warm weather expected to prolong the discomfort. The Met Office’s forecast indicates that pollen levels will be ‘very high’ in the South West and South East on Friday, with high levels in Wales, the West Midlands, the East Midlands, and the East. Moderate levels are expected elsewhere, except for northern Scotland where they will be low.
As the weekend progresses, pollen levels are set to remain high across the south and Wales, while being moderate in other regions except for northern Scotland. By Monday, conditions are expected to revert to ‘very high’ in the South West, South East, and Wales, with high levels in the East and West Midlands, as well as the East and North West, and medium levels elsewhere, again barring northern Scotland. A ‘pollen bomb’ refers to a sudden and extensive release of pollen into the atmosphere, often causing severe allergic reactions and respiratory issues for pollen-sensitive individuals.
Such events are usually triggered by specific weather conditions, such as a rapid transition from cold to warm temperatures prompting trees and plants to release a large quantity of pollen simultaneously. Factors contributing to a pollen bomb include unseasonably warm temperatures following a cold spell, dry and windy conditions aiding the spread of pollen, and the simultaneous release of pollen by various flowering flora. Allergy sufferers, including those with hay fever, may experience symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, a runny nose, and exacerbation of asthma during a pollen bomb.
As the ‘pollen bomb’ looms over the UK, health experts advise individuals with allergies to take necessary precautions to alleviate their symptoms. While the surge in pollen levels may be unavoidable, managing exposure and seeking appropriate medical advice can help mitigate the effects of hay fever. Stay tuned to regional pollen forecasts and consider implementing protective measures to navigate through the heightened pollen levels expected over the weekend. Take heed of expert recommendations to minimise discomfort and enjoy the spring season to the fullest.