Forecast

It’s still hot and the mugwort is in bloom!

On Monday afternoon, there may be thunderstorms across the whole of Vorarlberg. Thunderstorms with increased lightning activity can cause pollen to burst open, releasing more allergens. These tiny particles can penetrate deep into the airways and lead to sudden spikes in allergy symptoms, known as ‘thunderstorm asthma’. The rest of the week will be dry and sunny again. In the valleys, temperatures may reach between 30 °C and 35 °C. These conditions are ideal for the pollen dispersal of mugwort, which is currently in bloom. People with allergies who are sensitised to fungal spores should expect moderate to high pollen levels.###

In the lowlands of Vorarlberg, the flowering of common mugwort is progressing. People with sensitisation should avoid areas with dense stands of the plant, such as railway embankments, rubble sites, roadsides and along the Rhine and the Ill. Mugwort pollen is highly allergenic, and even a small number of pollen grains – 6 to 10 per cubic metre of inhaled air – can cause symptoms.

In the low-lying areas of Vorarlberg, grass pollen concentrations have fallen to a low late-summer level. In forests, individual flowering grasses may be found, meaning that locally intense pollen dispersal is possible there. In the mountainous regions of Vorarlberg, particularly at altitudes above 1,500 metres, some grass species are still flowering, so symptoms may occur there. If the wind direction is favourable, grass pollen can be carried from these areas into the valley regions, where it may exacerbate local pollen levels. Nettles, sorrel and plantain are also still in flower and contribute further to pollen levels.

Ragweed is also growing and sprouting in the Rhine Valley; it will take until August for it to flower. If you spot ragweed populations whilst out and about, please feel free to report them via the ‘Ragweed Finder’ citizen science platform. Reports can be submitted either via the website ragweedfinder.at or via the app (for Android and iOS). The reports are checked by experts from the “Ragweed Finder” team, plotted on the ragweed map and forwarded at regular intervals to the relevant authorities in the federal states. These authorities can then use the sightings to take further action.

Fungal spores are released in greater quantities, particularly after rainfall. Over the coming days, people who are sensitive to fungal spores should expect moderate to high levels of exposure. Exposure is lower at higher altitudes.

In addition to the pollen types already mentioned, pollen from bee balm, hops, hemp, amaranth and juniper is currently also present in the pollen spectrum. However, these pose only a low allergenic risk.