Forecast

Changeable weather, fluctuating pollen and fungal spore levels!

The weather forecast predicts changeable weather and a high probability of thunderstorms for the first half of the week. Whilst the rain will wash the pollen out of the air and reduce levels, higher concentrations of allergens may be present in the air before thunderstorms due to pollen grains bursting. These particles are smaller than pollen, which means they can penetrate deeper into the respiratory tract and lead to severe symptoms, known as ‘thunderstorm asthma’. Fungi also release more spores following rainfall.

Grasses continue to release pollen in the lowlands, but concentrations generally remain at low to moderate levels. However, along streams and rivers, as well as in forests, they may release increased amounts of pollen regionally, and high levels of pollen are possible. The peak of grass pollen season is now in the mountainous regions of Styria. Under favourable wind conditions, grass pollen can be carried from here into the valleys and lowlands, thereby increasing local pollen levels. Sorrel and plantain are also still in flower and are contributing to pollen levels.

In Styria, maize is now in flower. Maize pollen grains are among the largest in the plant kingdom and, due to their size and weight, are only carried over short distances. Consequently, elevated pollen concentrations are to be expected primarily near flowering maize fields.

Common mugwort is also now in flower. Dense stands can be found on railway embankments, rubbish tips, roadsides and along streams and rivers. It will be some time yet before flowering reaches its peak, but those with sensitivities should nevertheless avoid the locations mentioned. For this group of allergy sufferers, cross-reactions to celery, carrots and camomile may occur.

Allergy sufferers who are sensitised to fungal spores should expect moderate to high levels of exposure over the next few days. Spore concentrations rise particularly in the vicinity of fields being harvested. Threshing stirs up large quantities of fine dust and spores. Staying at higher altitudes minimises exposure, as spore concentrations decrease with increasing altitude.

In addition to the pollen types already mentioned, pollen from bee balm, nettle family plants, umbellifers, amaranth family plants, sour grasses, legumes and juniper is currently also present in the pollen spectrum. However, these pose only a low allergenic risk.