Forecast

Grass pollen season begins – pollen levels on the rise in Tyrol!

Over the past few days, changeable weather conditions and periods of rainfall have significantly reduced pollen concentrations in the air and the associated allergen levels in Tyrol. These conditions are expected to continue until tomorrow. From Sunday and throughout next week, however, warmer, sunnier and drier weather is expected again. This will significantly encourage pollen production and dispersal, leading to an increase in allergen levels in the region. Overall, moderate pollen concentrations are expected again, though high levels are possible locally.

Grass pollen: Grasses are now becoming the most significant allergenic factor in Tyrol. The grass pollen season is likely to begin in earnest next week. Grass pollen concentrations are expected to rise rapidly and reach moderate to locally high levels, particularly in valleys and at lower altitudes. In addition, concentrations of plantain and sorrel pollen are also increasing. Plantain pollen has moderate allergenic potential and frequently affects people who are already sensitised to grass pollen. Sorrel pollen is considered less allergenic but can exacerbate symptoms in people with grass pollen allergies. Together, these pollen types can increase the burden on allergy sufferers.

At higher altitudes, grass pollen concentrations remain significantly lower than in the lowlands, making these areas currently more favourable for people with grass pollen allergies.

Birch pollen: Birch pollen concentrations have now fallen significantly and are mostly at low levels across the region. At higher altitudes, where flowering is delayed, moderate allergenic exposure may still occur locally. Pollen concentrations of oak and beech are also continuing to decline.

Green alder pollen: The green alder is now beginning to flower at higher altitudes. Although pollen levels remain low at present, concentrations are likely to rise gradually in the coming weeks.

Other pollen types: Pollen from walnut, mulberry, horse chestnut and cypress trees has also been detected, but these currently have only low allergenic relevance. Spruce and pine pollen remain present in large quantities in the air and cause characteristic yellow deposits on surfaces throughout the region. Although these pollen types are not allergenic, they can cause mild irritation, such as a foreign body sensation in the eyes.

Pollen and weather conditions: Weather conditions play a crucial role in pollen dynamics. They influence how much pollen is produced, when it is released and how far it spreads. Rain generally reduces pollen dispersal, whilst warm, dry and sunny weather usually leads to increased pollen concentrations in the air. Understanding these relationships is crucial for accurate pollen forecasts and better allergy management.