Forecast

Changeable weather is curbing pollen release!

Clouds and rain are expected in Vienna from Tuesday onwards. As things stand, these conditions are set to continue until Thursday, thereby curbing pollen release to some extent. However, should the dry weather persist, moderate to high levels of grass pollen are expected. With the weather expected to improve over the weekend, levels are likely to rise again.

Grass pollen remains the main allergen. In addition to couch grass, brome grass and smooth oat grass, honey grass, ryegrass, meadow grass, tufted hairgrass and foxtail grass are also responsible for the measurable pollen levels.

In meadow areas, additional levels may also be caused by sorrel and plantain.

The cereal fields are in bloom and may cause additional pollen levels in the immediate vicinity of the fields. However, as cereal pollen is significantly larger and heavier than the pollen of naturally occurring grasses, it cannot be carried as far by the wind.

Linden blossom has passed its peak and is showing a downward trend in the pollen spectrum. Its flowers are pollinated by insects; the scent of the blossoms can also irritate the airways of sensitive individuals.

The tree of heaven, found in nutrient-poor and dry locations (such as railway embankments or wasteland), may already be releasing pollen. This is a neophyte from Asia that is spreading as an invasive plant in temperate or Mediterranean climate zones. Allergic skin reactions have already been documented.

The warm, humid weather promotes the release of fungal spores into the ambient air, which can already cause symptoms in many allergy sufferers.

In addition to the pollen types mentioned, nettles, sour grasses, legumes, vines and cypresses are also currently present in the pollen spectrum. However, these pose only a very low allergenic risk.