Forecast

Temperatures are rising and the grasses are still in bloom!

Much of Vorarlberg will remain sunny and dry during the first half of the week. This means pollen can be released unhindered, which will be a strain on those with pollen allergies. On Wednesday, there may be rain in the Bludenz area, bringing some relief to allergy sufferers. From the middle of the week, maximum daily temperatures will reach around 30 °C. At these temperatures, the likelihood of thunderstorms increases significantly. Thunderstorms with increased lightning activity can cause pollen to burst open. This allows large quantities of the allergen to enter the air and lead to very sudden spikes in pollen levels, known as ‘thunderstorm asthma’.

Grass pollen remains the main allergen in Vorarlberg. From the valleys up to the mountainous regions, couch grass, brome grass and false oat grass, honey grass, cock's foot grass, tufted hairgrass and foxtail grass. In meadow areas, additional pollution from sorrel and plantain is also possible.

Green alder flowering is progressing in its distribution area, which lies at over 1,000 metres above sea level. The mountain regions are also where the highest pollen levels are concentrated. However, their pollen can reach the valleys if the wind direction is favourable. For people who are sensitised to birch trees, green alder pollen is particularly relevant, as cross-reactions can occur.

In built-up areas, lime trees, sweet chestnuts and privet are currently in bloom. As lime trees are adapted to insect pollination, their pollen is rarely found in the air. However, their floral scent can irritate the airways of sensitive individuals. Sweet chestnut is only found as a planted species in Vorarlberg and can trigger cross-reactions in people who are sensitised to beech or birch trees. Privet is of significance for pollen allergy sufferers who react to olive trees.

Fungal spores are already present in the ambient air in quantities relevant to allergies. Fungi release increased amounts of spores, particularly after rainfall, which can lead to a rise in spore levels.