Forecast

High levels of grass pollen, but relief is on the way from Sunday!

In the second half of the week, it will remain cloudy to sunny but dry in Styria. For those with pollen allergies, this means days with high pollen counts. From Saturday, the likelihood of thunderstorms will increase. From Sunday, there will be rain and thunderstorms across the whole of Styria. This rainfall will bring relief for allergy sufferers well into next week.

Styria is currently showcasing the diversity of its native grasses. Brome, false oatgrass, honey grass, flase barley, tufted grass, cock's foot grass and foxtail grass are all in bloom. In higher altitudes too, the number of flowering grasses is steadily increasing. Where mowing has already taken place, grass pollen levels may be slightly lower. In meadows and along roadsides, sorrel and plantain are also in bloom. These can exacerbate grass pollen levels. Additionally, stinging nettles are in bloom.

Please note: Before thunderstorms with increased lightning activity, pollen may burst open. 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.

Poplar fluff is currently very prevalent. This consists of the seeds and seed hairs (i.e. the fruits) of the poplar. Poplar fluff cannot therefore trigger allergic reactions. Nevertheless, we very frequently receive reports of symptoms allegedly caused by poplar fluff. This is because poplar seeds are visible to the naked eye. However, the culprit behind these symptoms is grass pollen, which is currently the main allergen.

In the mountainous regions of Styria, green alders are currently in bloom. As long as the weather remains sunny and dry, their pollen can be carried by the wind into the valleys and lowlands, affecting people who are sensitive to birch trees. 

Linden trees have reached full bloom in Styria. As their flowers are adapted to insect pollination, they are generally rarely found in the air. However, their floral scent can irritate the airways of sensitive individuals.