Forecast

Hot days when grass pollen is in the air!

Weather conditions in Vorarlberg will remain stable this week. It will stay dry and sunny, with temperatures even climbing above 30 °C. For those with pollen allergies, this means days with high pollen counts, as pollen can spread unhindered.### appende###

In Vorarlberg, early-flowering grasses are the main source of allergens. These include Brome grass, false oat-grass, false barley, annual meadow grass, vernal grass, cock's foot grass, ryegrass and foxtail grass. Even at higher altitudes, the number of flowering grasses is steadily increasing. In terms of meadows, the sorrel and plantain species, which are now also flowering, can exacerbate the problem. Nettles have also begun to flower. 

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 due to the fact that poplar seeds are visible to the naked eye. However, the culprit behind these symptoms is grass pollen, which is currently the main allergen.

The oak and beech flowering season is over, which is why only low pollen concentrations are being recorded. 

In the mountains, the green alder is also in bloom. In its range, which lies above 1,000 metres above sea level, this is where the main concentration of pollen will be in the coming days. With the right wind direction, its pollen can be carried in allergy-relevant quantities into valley areas and the lowlands. This pollen is relevant for allergy sufferers who are sensitised to birch trees.

Linden trees are now in bloom in the valleys of Vorarlberg. 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.

Fungal spores have become more prevalent, meaning that the first allergy-relevant quantities are already in the air, which will affect those with sensitivities.