Residents in Oxford are being advised to prepare for high levels of pollen this week as warm and sunny weather arrives in the region. The Met Office has forecast very high levels of pollen, with levels across London and the South East forecast to remain very high from Wednesday, 8 April, through Sunday, 12 April 2026.
The warm conditions, with temperatures expected to reach approximately 23°C on Wednesday, are contributing to the increased pollen count. Rising heat and sunshine trigger higher levels of pollen release from trees, specifically birch, ash, and plane pollen, which are currently active across the area.
While no weather warnings are currently in force for Oxford, the impact on the approximately 10 million people in the UK who suffer from hay fever can be significant. Symptoms typically include sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, and itchy eyes, mouth, or throat. According to Allergy UK, unmanaged symptoms can also affect sleep quality and potentially worsen existing conditions like asthma.
To help minimise exposure to pollen and reduce the severity of symptoms, the Met Office suggests that those affected carry their medication and limit time spent outdoors during peak afternoon hours. Residents are also encouraged to regularly monitor local forecasts to stay informed about changing conditions.
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