UK households warned ‘do not dry clothes outside’ in spring

The spring season has arrived, bringing with it longer days and the welcome warmth after a chilly winter. However, the onset of spring also marks the start of hay fever season, which generally begins in late March.

According to the Met Office, tree pollen season is already underway, and those sensitive to it might have started experiencing some unwelcome symptoms. The national weather service has indicated that birch pollen could be particularly abundant this year due to the conditions last spring and summer.

The UK saw its warmest meteorological spring and May on record since 1884, and with the high temperatures at the end of June, “conditions were ideal for pollen production”. Following tree pollen, grass pollen season takes over from mid-May to July, and then weed pollen from around June to September, meaning the timing of hay fever symptoms will vary depending on the type of pollen you’re allergic to.

Allergy UK advises that managing hay fever effectively involves understanding what triggers it and taking preventative steps to reduce its impact. One such measure includes avoiding hanging laundry outside during spring when pollen levels are high.