Forecast

Thunderstorms, temperatures above 30 °C and fluctuating grass pollen levels!

As temperatures rise and rainfall decreases, pollen levels have increased significantly. The weather forecast predicts temperatures above 30 °C and a much higher likelihood of thunderstorms for the second half of the week. People with pollen allergies should prepare for moderate to high pollen levels.

Grasses are currently releasing pollen at an increased rate. In Graz, however, the majority of early-flowering grasses are already nearing the end of their flowering period, so the pollen count is currently only moderate. Grass flowering has shifted from the lowlands to higher altitudes on alpine pastures and mountain meadows. During the afternoon, grass pollen may be carried by wind into the valleys and lowlands. Pollen from sorrel and plantain is also now being detected more frequently in our pollen traps and may increase the pollen count.

Note: Thunderstorms with increased lightning activity can cause pollen grains to burst open. This can release large quantities of the allergen into the air and lead to very sudden spikes in pollen levels, known as ‘thunderstorm asthma’. 

Green alder flowering has passed its peak in the mountainous regions of Styria. The main concentration of pollen remains within its range at altitudes above 1,000 metres above sea level. However, under favourable wind conditions, its pollen can reach the valley floors. For people who are sensitised to birch trees, green alder pollen is of particular concern, as cross-reactions may occur.

The sweet chestnut is also currently in flower in Styria and may trigger cross-reactions in people who are sensitised to beech or birch trees.

Linden and privet are still in bloom, but their flowering is already winding down. As they rely on pollination by insects, their pollen is rarely found in the ambient air. The intense floral scent of the linden can irritate the airways of sensitive individuals. For people with pollen allergies who react to olive trees, privet is of particular significance.

Current temperatures and rainfall are conducive to the dispersal of fungal spores, which is why allergy-relevant levels are regularly being recorded at our monitoring stations. Whilst rain reduces the concentration of pollen in the air, thereby providing relief for allergy sufferers, fungi release large quantities of spores, particularly after rainfall.

In addition to the pollen types already mentioned, pollen from pine, spruce, umbellifers, broom, grapevines, tree of heaven and cypresses is currently also present in the pollen spectrum. However, these pose only a low allergenic risk.