Ambrosia's arrival marked the start of the season.

In the early stages of the ragweed pollen season, Germany is experiencing a significant impact, particularly in certain regions. According to Anke Kniffka from the Center for Medical-Meteorological Research in Freiburg of the German Weather Service (DWD), the common ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia) is now established in Germany and is most prevalent in southern Germany, southwestern Germany, southern Brandenburg, and Hesse.

Southeastern Brandenburg, specifically the region of Niederlausitz, has been identified as a hotspot for ragweed. The current warmth has led to a growth spurt of ragweed in Germany, contributing to increased pollen levels. Last week, there was a slightly increased pollen concentration in Bavaria, which was likely due to eastern winds carrying pollen from neighboring countries.

However, predicting ragweed pollen levels is challenging due to various weather conditions. The actual distribution of the common ragweed is insufficiently known, making it difficult to accurately predict the pollen flight. The latest weekly pollen forecast for Germany states that most of Germany is experiencing very low or sporadic pollen levels.

It's worth noting that the common ragweed is particularly prevalent in regions where it was previously observed. The current focus of the distribution of Common Osier (Gemeine Ragweide) in Germany is primarily in the river valleys and wetlands of the central and southern regions.

Anke Kniffka recently explained the increased pollen concentration in Bavaria, but no new information about the reasons for this increase or the role of eastern winds in carrying pollen from neighboring countries was provided. The German Pollen Information Service, based in Berlin, announced the beginning of the ragweed pollen season in Germany.

Despite the challenges in predicting the pollen flight, the initial significant impact of ragweed pollen is observed in southeastern Brandenburg. Ragweed pollen is very allergenic, so those with ragweed allergies are advised to take precautions. This year, we are still at the beginning of the ragweed pollen season, so regular updates on pollen levels will be provided by the German Pollen Information Service.