Forecast

Over the weekende pollen levels will be high in Vorarlberg!

After a rainy start to the week, the weather is set to improve in the second half of the week. The forecast promises sunny and dry conditions for the long Whitsun weekend, with maximum daytime temperatures between 20 °C and 25 °C. In these conditions, pollen can spread unhindered, which is why allergy sufferers must prepare for moderate to high levels of grass pollen.

In the lowlands and valley areas, the diversity of native grasses is evident. Brome grass, false oat-grass, false barley, annual meadow grass, vernal grass, cock's foot grass, ryegrass and foxtail grass are all in bloom. At higher altitudes, the number of flowering grasses is steadily increasing. Currently, grass pollen levels here are still lower than in the valley areas. In meadows and along the edges of paths, sorrel and plantain are in bloom. They can increase the level of grass pollen. In addition, stinging nettles are in bloom.

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 pollen from grasses is responsible for these symptoms and is currently the main allergen.

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

At altitudes above 1,000 metres above sea level, green alders are in bloom. This is also where the main concentration of pollen is found. If the wind direction is right, their pollen can be carried by long-distance transport into the valley areas, where it may affect people who are sensitised to birch trees.

In the coming days, the first lime trees will begin to flower. 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.

The rainfall and the warm daytime temperatures that are now following mean that fungal spores are becoming more prevalent. Over this long weekend, the first allergy-relevant quantities of fungal spores may be present in the air, affecting those with sensitivities.

In addition to the pollen types mentioned, umbellifers, elder, horse chestnut, poaceae, legumes, walnut, rushes and cypresses are currently also present in the pollen spectrum. However, they pose only a very low allergenic risk.