Irish hay fever sufferers are being warned of high levels of pollen expected across the bank holiday weekend - particularly in Leinster and Munster.
According to Met Eireann, levels will be at their height nationwide on Friday, with levels rising amid the arrival of warmer weather.
“Tree pollen will rise to a high risk during warm, sunny weather,” the Irish forecaster says.
Meanwhile “oak pollen will be the main pollen type airborne with a little birch and grass," while "allergenic tree pollen types are currently airborne including oak with some birch.”
READ MORE: Irish pharmacist lists hacks to minimise hay fever amid peak pollen season
In terms of grass pollen, its “season is just starting with a few early-flowering grass types now airborne, possibly triggering a sneeze or two in some people on warm, sunny days.”
On Saturday, those living in Connacht and Ulster will breathe a sigh of relief as levels return to ‘Low’ while those living in Leinster and Munster are in for an extension to the ‘High’ levels.
Friday is due to bring dry and bright weather from the morning to early afternoon with sunny spells.
Cloud will build from the west through the afternoon and extend eastwards across the country by early evening but temperatures will remain mild with highs of 17C.
Saturday will see a cloudy or overcast start with rain spreading from the west - however, the rain will be mostly light, and southern areas will have the best chance of any dry periods.
The highest temperatures will range from 11 to 16 degrees, mildest in the south, with light to moderate southwest winds.
Sunday will be another mostly cloudy day with showers but temperatures will remain mild across the country and the brightest spells focused in the evening time.
As for next week, Met Eireann predicts “a mix of cloud, showers and some sunny spells for midweek next week and highs in the low to mid-teens.”
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