Forecast

Ambrosia pollen levels are rising around Mötz – mugwort pollen levels are falling!

The late-summer pollen season is entering a new phase in Tyrol. Mugwort pollen concentrations are now falling after reaching their seasonal peak, bringing increasing relief to many allergy sufferers. Grass pollen concentrations also remain low. However, ragweed pollen concentrations around Mötz have risen significantly and are now causing a high level of allergenic exposure. This means that ragweed is currently the most important pollen type that allergy sufferers in this area should keep an eye on.

Ragweed: The situation around Mötz has changed significantly over the past week. Whilst ragweed pollen concentrations had previously remained low, they have now risen sharply and are reaching high allergenic levels. This is particularly relevant for those with ragweed allergies, as the pollen has a very high allergenic potential and even relatively small amounts can trigger symptoms. The area between Rietz and Haiming remains a particular focus, as a large ragweed population is spreading there. With our pollen trap in Mötz, we can closely monitor the progression of the pollen season in this hotspot. People with ragweed allergies who live in or are visiting this area should currently be particularly vigilant and avoid large flowering patches, as local pollen levels there may be even higher. Reports of ragweed occurrences are also increasing in East Tyrol, meaning this area could develop into another region requiring special attention.

Mugwort pollen: In contrast, the mugwort (Artemisia) pollen season is now clearly winding down. The seasonal peak is behind us, and pollen concentrations are falling across the whole of Tyrol, bringing increasing relief to those with mugwort allergies. Locally, however, pollen levels may still be elevated in the immediate vicinity of large flowering stands, particularly on roadsides, along paths and field margins, as well as on fallow land and other disturbed sites. Overall, however, the trend for the coming weeks is clearly downward.

Grass pollen: Grass pollen concentrations remain low throughout Tyrol. As the grass pollen season is already well advanced, this is unlikely to change much in the coming weeks. Locally, levels may still be slightly higher near mountain meadows, pastures and other grass-rich areas, but a significant renewed rise is no longer expected. Small amounts of plantain pollen are also still present in the air and may contribute to symptoms in those with grass allergies.

Other types of pollen: Pollen from the nettle family (Urticaceae) is still present in the air. Although it can sometimes occur in relatively high concentrations, nettle pollen is of little allergenic significance in Tyrol and generally causes few problems for allergy sufferers.

Fungal spores: Concentrations of airborne fungal spores currently remain in the moderate to high range and may trigger symptoms in sensitive individuals. Weather conditions continue to play an important role here: rainfall and high humidity favour fungal growth, whilst spore concentrations may rise during sunny and drier spells following rainfall.

Weather, pollen levels and practical advice: Over the coming days, the weather in Tyrol will remain changeable, with a mix of rainy and sunnier spells. Showers and thunderstorms can temporarily reduce pollen concentrations in the air, whilst drier and sunnier spells allow them to rise again. For most pollen types, the seasonal trend is now downwards: grass pollen levels remain low and mugwort pollen is declining. The notable exception at present is ragweed around Mötz, where pollen concentrations have risen significantly and are now reaching high allergen levels. People with ragweed allergies in the area between Rietz and Haiming should therefore be particularly cautious at present. Fungal spore concentrations may also rise again during sunny spells following rainfall.