After weeks of persistent rainfall and mild temperatures, pollen levels are rising significantly across large parts of Spain. Experts warn that the combination of current weather conditions and plant development could lead to a particularly intense allergy season, posing challenges for millions of allergy sufferers across the country.
Spain Press Editorial Team
by Marlon Gallego Bosbach
Rain, warmth and pollen: an unfortunate trio
Since the end of December, Atlantic low-pressure systems have repeatedly brought rain and mild air to Spain. At first glance, it may seem surprising that wet weather during the winter months increases pollen concentrations, but from an aerobiological perspective, it is understandable: rain stimulates plants to grow more vigorously and bloom as soon as temperatures stabilise. Additionally, milder nights cause trees such as alders, birches, and other early bloomers to release pollen earlier and in greater quantities than usual.
In recent days, the Spanish Aerobiology Network (Red Española de Aerobiología, REA) has reported significantly elevated levels of pollen, particularly from alders (Alnus glutinosa), at various monitoring stations. This type of pollen is highly allergenic and often appears at the beginning of the pollen season, before levels rise later in spring with other species such as birches, cypresses, or grasses.
Why the exposure hits harder
Allergy sufferers report not only an earlier onset of typical symptoms such as sneezing, a blocked nose, or itchy eyes – many also say that these symptoms are more intense than in previous years. There are several reasons for this:
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Precipitation and humidity: Rain can break up pollen grains and release microscopic fragments into the air, which can reach deep into the respiratory system. These smaller particles trigger the immune system more intensely than whole pollen grains.
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Weather patterns: The repeated periods of rain alternated with days of mild temperatures, which stimulated plants to bloom more vigorously.
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Urban air: In city centres, air pollution can further increase the impact of pollen particles on the immune system. Pollutants such as diesel particles can attach to pollen, enhancing its allergenic potential – a phenomenon that experts have been observing for several years.
Regional differences – who is affected?
The increased pollen levels are not limited to specific regions. Those most affected at present include:
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The northern and central regions of Spain, where alders and birches are widespread.
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Urban areas, where local emissions and microclimate effects can further amplify the pollen burden.
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Densely populated coastal regions, where milder winter conditions lead to earlier blooming periods.
However, pollen levels vary significantly from place to place – local weather conditions, altitude, and plant distribution all play a major role.
Health impacts
Medical societies and allergists advise individuals with pollen allergies to exercise increased caution. In addition to classic symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and a blocked nose, asthmatic symptoms may also be exacerbated.
Experts recommend:
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Regular nasal rinses with saline solution to remove pollen from the upper airways.
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Wearing protective masks on days with high pollen concentrations to reduce allergen exposure.
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Wearing sunglasses to prevent eye irritation from airborne pollen.
Outlook: Spring season with potential for extension
Meteorologists expect the current weather conditions to extend the pollen season. While the alder and birch phases are often already over by the time spring is in full swing, this year the transition to other allergenic pollens such as cypresses or grasses could be smoother and occur earlier – a factor that may place additional strain on people with cross-allergies.
A season of increased risk for allergy sufferers
The combination of rain, mild temperatures, and a strong plant response has led to unusually high pollen levels in Spain. For millions of allergy sufferers, this means a potential intensification of symptoms that could persist for several weeks. Careful management of the condition, alongside preventive measures and medical advice, is currently considered the best protection in a season that many are likely to experience as particularly challenging.
