UK Health Agency issues high pollen warning amid heatwave

The UK is experiencing an unseasonably warm spell, with temperatures forecast to reach up to 30C in some areas, making it one of the hottest early periods on record. Alongside the heat, the Met Office and UK Health Security Agency have issued warnings about 'very high' pollen counts, particularly across southern England, Wales, and the Midlands, which poses a significant risk to hay fever sufferers. Experts note that current high pollen levels are due mainly to tree pollens, such as plane and oak, with grass pollen season yet to peak. Hay fever, affecting up to one in four Britons, brings symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and itchy eyes, and is typically worse in warm, humid, and windy conditions. Health authorities recommend limiting outdoor exposure during early morning and evening when pollen is highest, and taking precautions against both pollen and ultraviolet rays during this hot spell. While national temperature records are unlikely to be broken, local sites may see their warmest April days on record.