Forecast

Rain, thunderstorms, cloud cover, sunshine and fluctuating pollen levels!

The weather in Styria will remain very changeable over the coming days. Where rain falls, those with pollen allergies can breathe a temporary sigh of relief, as the rain washes the pollen out of the air. If the sun shines for longer and the grass inflorescences dry out, grass pollen levels can rise rapidly once again.

A wide variety of grasses are currently in bloom in the lowlands and on the mountains. We have received reports of flowering specimens of couch grass, brome grass, false barley grass, false oat grass, honey grass, cock's foot grass, tufted grass and foxtail grass. In Styria, these grasses are responsible for the main allergen in the ambient air. During sunny spells, grass pollen levels can rise rapidly again. In growing regions, rye flowering has also begun. As the pollen grains of this cultivated grass are comparatively large and have limited dispersal ability, higher pollen counts are to be expected, particularly in sunny weather in the immediate vicinity of fields.

Please note: Pollen grains may burst open before thunderstorms with increased lightning activity. This can release large quantities of allergens into the air, leading to very sudden spikes in pollen levels that do not necessarily correlate with pollen dispersal.

Plantain is also currently flowering in meadows and on roadsides. However, corresponding pollen has so far only been detected sporadically. The first pollen grains from sorrel, which is also in bloom, have already been recorded. Nettles are now in bloom as well.

In the mountainous regions of Styria, green alders are currently in bloom. Their range lies above 1,000 metres above sea level. This is also where the highest pollen levels are concentrated, as rain will prevent long-distance transport into the lowlands.

Linden trees in Styria have now reached full bloom. As their flowers are adapted for insect pollination, their pollen rarely enters the air. However, the intense floral scent can irritate the airways of sensitive individuals.

Fungal spores are also becoming increasingly significant. The first allergy-relevant concentrations are already being reached. Fungi release spores more frequently, particularly after rainfall.