Hay fever levels surge as pollen bomb hits UK early

In the UK, especially in London and the South East of England, pollen levels surged to very high levels during the first half of April 2025, leading to an early onset of the hay fever season. On Sunday, April 13, when pollen levels were reported as very high, many individuals began to experience classic allergy symptoms, which include frequent sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose. This spike in pollen count aligns with the warm and dry weather conditions that the country has been experiencing, especially with temperatures peaking at 24°C in some areas. Dr. Fiona Symon, an expert in respiratory sciences, highlighted the significant role of birch pollen, which is known to provoke allergic reactions for a large segment of the population. The flourishing birch trees this April, driven by the warm weather and breezy conditions, have amplified pollen dispersal, which in turn has intensified the symptoms for those who suffer from hay fever. This early surge has prompted health warnings from the Met Office as regions within the country brace for the worst effects. By the beginning of the week, the Met Office had issued high pollen warnings for regions in England including London, the East Midlands, and the West Midlands. Predictions suggested that pollen levels would fluctuate through the week, with some areas remaining at high risk consistently. The heightened pollen counts are forming a cardiovascular risk, especially for the more than 10 million affected individuals in Britain. Meanwhile, expert advice is being circulated, urging hay fever sufferers to use over-the-counter medications, such as antihistamines and corticosteroids, to alleviate their symptoms. As the week progresses, numbers are expected to fluctuate, with forecasts showing varying degrees of high and very high pollen levels. The public has been warned to prepare themselves for the impact this rising pollen season may have on their health, particularly the estimated 10 million diagnosed hay fever sufferers across the country. The convergence of environmental conditions coupled with the early emergence of tree pollination indicates that this year's pollen season may prove to be particularly challenging for those prone to allergies.