On the first day of spring, the Met Office issued “very high” hay fever warnings in Wales, sparking concern among allergy sufferers. The warm weather, accompanied by above-average temperatures across the UK, has led to heightened tree pollen levels, setting the stage for potential exacerbation of hay fever symptoms. As Britons bask in the sun, experts are cautioning those with allergies to take necessary precautions. The Met Office’s pollen forecast for Wales painted a somber picture for hay fever sufferers, with the region joining the West Midlands and North West England in receiving a “very high” pollen warning on Thursday.
The spike in tree pollen levels comes amidst the anticipation of the hottest day of 2025, with temperatures expected to soar in various cities, including Cardiff, Swansea, and London. This sudden shift to spring-like conditions after a long winter has brought both joy and discomfort to many. The prolonged sunny spell has experts like Yolanda Clewlow, the Met Office’s pollen forecast manager, advising vigilance for those sensitive to pollen. Clewlow highlighted the early onset of the pollen season, particularly for tree pollen, which could persist at high levels due to conditions in the previous spring and summer when pollen formation began.
The University of Worcester’s weekly pollen forecast points towards continued high levels of alder pollen in the upcoming week, posing a significant risk during mild and dry weather. Looking ahead, regions like Wales are bracing for heightened birch pollen levels as we move towards April and May. The forecast suggests an extended period of elevated birch pollen, with different regions experiencing varying durations of high pollen levels. As the Met Office predicts unsettled weather in the days to come, hay fever sufferers are advised to prepare for potential fluctuations in pollen levels and associated symptoms.
Dr Beverley Adams-Groom, a senior pollen forecaster at the University of Worcester, shared concerns about the prolonged elevation of tree pollen levels, attributing it to favorable weather conditions for pollen release. Amidst the current wave of warm weather, experts are keeping a close eye on the grass pollen season, which typically commences in early May. The unpredictability of the grass pollen season underscores the importance of monitoring atmospheric conditions for potential allergens. Hay fever sufferers are encouraged to adopt preventive measures recommended by Allergy UK, such as wearing protective gear outdoors and minimizing exposure to pollen.
The recent surge in fungal spore levels, coupled with the ongoing tree pollen season, underscores the challenges faced by allergy sufferers during this period. With temperatures set to fluctuate and weather conditions remaining unpredictable, being prepared and proactive is key for managing hay fever symptoms. As health experts continue to monitor pollen levels and offer guidance, individuals are encouraged to consult healthcare professionals if symptoms persist. Despite the joys of spring, the specter of high pollen levels looms large for many, highlighting the importance of taking necessary precautions to mitigate the impact of hay fever on daily life.