Forecast

Changeable weather, mugwort levels on the rise – grass and fungal spore levels remain noticeable!

The weather is set to be rather changeable over the weekend, which tends to reduce pollen levels. However, occasional rain encourages fungal spore production – so an increased concentration of fungal spores in the air is to be expected after rainfall. Particular caution is advised during thunderstorms: the storm activity causes pollen grains to burst, creating a risk of so-called thunderstorm asthma. 

Grass pollen levels have now passed their peak, but grasses in the lowlands continue to release pollen, with concentrations generally remaining at moderate levels. However, along streams and rivers, as well as in forests, they may release pollen at higher levels in some areas, meaning high concentrations are also possible. The main focus of grass flowering is now in the mountainous regions of Styria. Under favourable wind conditions, grass pollen can be carried from there into the valleys and lowlands, thereby increasing local pollen levels. Sorrel and plantain are also still in flower and are contributing to pollen levels.

Maize has begun to flower in the areas where it is grown. Maize pollen is among the largest pollen grains in the plant kingdom. Due to their size and comparatively high weight, they are only carried over short distances. Increased pollen concentrations are therefore to be expected primarily in the immediate vicinity of flowering maize fields.

Mugwort is now becoming more prominent in pollen traps on a daily basis; the number of flowering plants is steadily increasing, which also means that mugwort pollen levels are rising. However, it will still take a few days before widespread flowering begins. Plants that are already flowering may cause initial localised exposure.

Allergy sufferers who are sensitised to fungal spores should expect moderate to high levels of exposure in the coming days. Large quantities of fungal spores are stirred up, particularly during the threshing of cereals. Spore concentrations also rise following rainfall. Relief can be found by spending time at higher altitudes, as fungal spore levels decrease significantly with increasing altitude.

In addition to the pollen types already mentioned, pollen from bee balm, nettle family plants, umbellifers, acid grasses, legumes and juniper is currently also present in the pollen spectrum. However, these pose only a very low allergenic risk.