Forecast

Temperatures are rising and the birch is dusting!

The weather is getting friendlier and friendlier until the Easter holidays. The weather forecast promises us dry weather and daytime highs of 20 °C. Under these conditions, the birchwhich is already in the starting blocks, will be very dusty. Sensitised people should therefore plan their outdoor activities very well, take precautions to avoid allergens and remember to take suitable emergency medication with them.

Our nature observers in Vorarlberg have told us that the birch trees in the Ländle have an above-average density of catkins this year. Before the change in the weather, the first specimens were ready to flower, but the cold and rain prevented them from releasing pollen. In the fine weather phase that now follows, the birch trees in the lowlands will begin to dust almost simultaneously and ensure very high concentrations of birch pollen in the surrounding air.

The hornbeams are now in bloom. They are not so common in Vorarlberg and produce less pollen than birch. As birch, alder, hazel and hornbeam are closely related, cross-reactions are possible in sensitised people.

The ash still has the potential to release pollen. However, it has already passed its flowering peak. However, dense stands should be avoided by allergy sufferers who are sensitised to this olive tree.

Forsythia is also relevant for this group of pollen allergy sufferers. They should refrain from putting up flowering forsythia branches indoors as Easter decorations in order to minimise their exposure.

Also poplars and willows can also continue to release pollen and will do so at Easter.

In addition to the pollen types already mentioned, pollen from maple, yew and cypress plants are present in the air. However, these only have a low allergenic potential.

Despite the expected exposure, the Austrian Pollen Information team wishes everyone a happy Easter and relaxing holidays.