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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 13 June 2026 by the Insight Britain weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.
Live data from Open-Meteo · updates automatically ·
The live forecast above shows today’s pollen levels for grass, birch and tree pollen across the UK. For most areas, the pollen count is moderate to high, with grass pollen peaking in late spring and early summer. Check your local reading to plan outdoor time if you have hay fever.
How to read the live pollen levels above
The widget displays separate readings for grass, birch and other tree pollen. Each is given a number from 0 to 10, corresponding to the Low/Moderate/High/Very High bands explained below. The overall “pollen count” shown is the highest of the three types for your selected location. You can change the location to get the pollen count today in my area – for example, to see the pollen count today London or the pollen count Ealing. The forecast updates regularly, so the value you see is the current level for today.
When is pollen season in the UK?
The UK has three main pollen seasons. Tree pollen (especially birch) arrives earliest, from March to May. Grass pollen follows, typically from mid-May to July, and is the most common trigger for hay fever. Weed pollen, such as nettle and mugwort, appears from late June through September. The live forecast above covers all three types, so you can see which is dominant right now.
What do the pollen count bands mean?
The Met Office uses four bands: Low (0–3), Moderate (4–6), High (7–9) and Very High (10). The pollen count today UK map in the widget uses these bands to show variation across regions. For most people, symptoms start at Moderate levels; at High or Very High, even those without hay fever may notice irritation. The pollen count yesterday UK and the pollen count last 7 days can help you understand trends – the widget includes historical data for your area if you scroll down.
Hay-fever practical tips
If your symptoms are mild, start taking non-drowsy antihistamines before the pollen count rises – check the live forecast above for today’s levels. Indoors, keep windows closed, especially in the morning and evening when grass pollen is released. Shower and change clothes after being outside to remove pollen. Using a saline nasal spray can help flush out allergens. For severe hay fever, a GP may recommend steroid nasal sprays or immunotherapy. This article does not replace medical advice; consult a pharmacist or doctor if symptoms are severe.
Regional differences across the UK
Pollen levels vary significantly depending on weather, geography and local vegetation. The pollen count today UK map shows that southern and central England, including London and Ealing, often experience higher grass pollen counts than Scotland or northern England because of warmer temperatures and more grass species. Coastal areas and higher ground tend to have lower counts. The live forecast above allows you to check the pollen count today London BBC-style data, alongside readings for other towns and cities. For a broader view, see the UK weather hub which includes daily regional summaries.
Frequently asked questions about the pollen forecast
Where can I find the pollen count last 7 days?
The live forecast above includes a 7-day history for your location. Scroll below the main widget to see the pollen count last 7 days chart, showing daily highs for grass, birch and tree pollen. This helps you spot trends and plan ahead.
Why does the pollen count today London differ from other areas?
London’s urban heat island effect and grass coverage can produce higher counts than nearby rural areas. The pollen count today London in the widget uses data from monitoring stations in the capital, so it reflects local conditions. Always check your own postcode for the most accurate reading.
What was the pollen count yesterday UK?
You can view the pollen count yesterday UK in the historical section of the live forecast. Select “yesterday” from the date dropdown to see the previous day’s levels for your chosen location. This is useful for comparing how symptoms change day to day.
Is the pollen count today in my area the same as the BBC forecast?
The BBC uses Met Office data, and our live forecast also draws on official UK monitoring networks. While the figures should be similar, small differences can occur due to update timings. For consistency, stick to one source. Our widget updates every hour.
How does weather affect the pollen count today UK map?
Rain washes pollen out of the air, so counts fall after a shower. Warm, dry, windy weather increases pollen release and dispersal. The live forecast above includes a weather summary alongside the pollen map, so you can see how the current conditions affect levels. For more detail, check the 10-day forecast.
For severe hay fever or asthma symptoms, always seek medical advice. You can also visit the UK Weather Warnings page to see if any weather-related health alerts are in place. The pollen forecast is one part of being weather-aware – the UK weather hub brings together all the information you need.