In Sweden, despite the ongoing subzero temperatures, the pollen season is beginning to emerge, marking a shift from typical seasonal patterns. According to the Naturhistoriska riksmuseet, which monitors air pollen levels, this year’s pollen season is arriving approximately a month earlier than in the previous year, indicating a significant change. This early appearance has led to an increase in allergy symptoms among the population, as reflected in heightened sales of allergy medications at pharmacies across the country.

The phenomenon of early pollen release, occurring even amidst icy weather, can be attributed to southern winds bringing pollen from warmer parts of Europe where trees like hazel are already blooming. Pollen expert Agneta Ekebom explains that these dynamics are increasingly common due to climate change, which has historically resulted in warmer winters. As a consequence, plants are responding to changing climate conditions by blooming earlier, leading to overlapping seasons and unexpected pollen occurrences.

Experts suggest that the early onset and intensification of pollen seasons are part of a broader trend linked to climate change, with longer and more intense seasons predicted for the future. This could lead to increased challenges for allergy sufferers, necessitating adjustments in public health responses and individual management strategies for those affected by seasonal allergies.