Beware 75F ‘pollen bomb’ at Easter

THE mini heatwave forecast for the Easter weekend could come with a sting in the tail in the form of a ‘pollen bomb’.

The sudden arrival of warm weather could see trees such as oak, birch, ash and plane release their pollen all at once.

Asthma UK is warning the country’s 3.3million sufferers to take extra precautions ahead of the public holiday.

From today, fine and settled conditions are forecast across much of Britain as an area of high pressure brings warm air up from the Mediterranean.

Temperatures will build up and could reach a high of 75F (24C) in southern England and Wales by Saturday – and 70F (21C) being reached further north.

But it means high levels of pollen are predicted across the country. To make matters worse, air pollution such as particulates from diesel engines is also expected to rise, before easterly winds disperse it by the end of the weekend.

Asthma UK’s Sonia Munde said: ‘A deadly pollen bomb is due

‘Potentially life-threatening’

to hit this week, putting people with asthma at risk of a potentially life-threatening attack. Trees have been releasing their pollen for several weeks, but the warm spring weather is going to make pollen levels spike.

‘If you’re already getting symptoms, it’s not too late to help yourself stay well. Everyone with asthma should keep their blue reliever inhaler with them at all times in case of an emergency.’

The warning was echoed by Public Health England. Spokesman Karen Exley said: ‘While most people will not be affected by short-term peaks in ambient air pollution, some individuals, such as those with existing heart or lung conditions, may experience increased symptoms.

‘On occasions where levels are high, adults and children with lung problems, and adults with heart problems, should reduce strenuous physical exertion, particularly outdoors, particularly if they experience symptoms.’