Warning issued for extreme pollen conditions
Extreme grass pollen level is forecast today across northern Victoria and a state-wide extreme grass pollen forecast is anticipated on Monday 6 November. These conditions are expected to persist through to at least Thursday next week. A high pollen forecast is also predicted today for Canberra.
Last updated 3 November 2023
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The Melbourne Pollen team has released its latest insights on the 2023 grass pollen season, revealing an earlier than usual start influenced by the El Niño weather pattern and September’s record warmth for Victoria.
Dr Edwin Lampugnani, a leading expert from the Melbourne Pollen team, stated, “This year’s early onset of high pollen days is unprecedented in recent decades. The influence of the El Niño weather pattern combined with September’s record temperatures has created a unique set of conditions.”
“Comparing the data, 2023 is shaping up to be a particularly challenging year for people with hay fever and asthma,” commented Associate Professor Ed Lampugnani from the Melbourne Pollen team. “By this time in 2020, there had been five high grass pollen days, whereas 2023 has already seen nine, marking the earliest start in the last 30 years.”
High and extreme grass pollen days are of particular concern for individuals with hay fever and asthma. Melbourne typically experiences around 20 of these challenging days between October 1 and the year’s end. The first high or extreme day usually occurs towards the end of October, with the last one often around Christmas.
In partnership with Melbourne Pollen, the National Asthma Council Australia’s Sensitive Choice program has the daily pollen forecasts available on the Sensitive Choice website.
Advice on high pollen forecast days includes:
- Stay indoors during high and extreme grass pollen days.
- If you have asthma, allergies or hay fever, check our pollens and hay fever factsheet.
- Ensure homes are secured against pollen intrusion by keeping windows closed and considering the use of air purifiers. See Sensitive Choice approved air purifiers for asthma and allergy aware products.
- Update and follow asthma actions plans, especially for those with asthma. Download asthma action plans.
- Consult with GPs or pharmacists for tailored advice and medication recommendations.
- Ensure you have your hay fever and asthma medication on hand.
- Stay safe, check the daily pollen forecasts and plan ahead. Visit Sensitivechoice.com