Hazelnut and Alder: The Pollen Flight Has Already Gripped Allergy Sufferers
Pollen season has begun in the western and southwestern regions of Germany, affecting allergy sufferers, while the north remains unaffected due to colder weather.
The onset of the pollen season in Germany has started to affect hay fever sufferers in the western and southwestern regions, as reported by the Pollen Information Service (PID) based in Berlin. Warm temperatures have led to the early blooming of various spring flowers in these areas, including snowdrops and crocuses, with daffodils and almond blossoms set to follow soon. This early bloom has been most prominent in regions such as North Rhine-Westphalia, where conditions have been favorable for pollinating plants like hazelnuts and domestic alders.
In contrast, the northern parts of Germany are experiencing a stillness in pollen activity due to persistent frost and snow, which continues to keep pollen levels in check. This division in weather conditions throughout the country highlights the significant regional differences in the onset and impact of pollen on allergy sufferers. The PID's report notes that while those in the southern and western regions have begun to feel the effects of pollen exposure, individuals in the north can remain momentarily at ease, temporarily avoiding the discomfort faced by their peers.
As spring approaches, the implications of this early pollen season are twofold: it raises awareness for those with allergies to prepare for a possibly prolonged pollen season, while shedding light on the broader environmental effects of climate change that may contribute to earlier blooming of plants. As temperatures fluctuate and seasonal patterns evolve, understanding local pollen calendars will be increasingly important for public health.