Canberrans warned to brace for higher pollen levels
Canberrans are being warned to prepare for a stronger grass pollen season in 2025, according to the Canberra Pollen Count and Forecast, run by The Australian National University (ANU) and AirHealth.
Wetter soil, greener pastures, and forecasts of above-average spring rainfall are creating conditions that could drive grass growth and increase pollen levels across the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).
“This year’s grass pollen season has the potential to be much stronger than 2024,” ANU Professor Simon Haberle said.
“September and October will be critical. If conditions stay wet, we can expect higher pollen levels. If it’s dry, the season could remain closer to average.”
Canberra experienced a relatively mild grass pollen season in 2024, recording just four high and 23 moderate pollen days between October and December, with the season ending earlier than usual.
This year, a wetter July has left soils in much better condition than at the same time in 2024. With more moisture, warmer temperatures, and longer daylight hours, the risk of stronger grass growth and higher pollen levels increases substantially.
Grass pollen is the major allergic pollen type in Canberra, with the worst days typically occurring in November when hot northerly winds carry pollen into the city from pastures in surrounding areas.
The Canberra Pollen Forecasting Team uses advanced machine learning models combined with satellite data and climate forecasts to provide location-specific predictions across the ACT.
“With the potential for a heavier pollen season, there are some simple steps people can take to prepare,” Professor Haberle said.
“If you experience hay fever or asthma, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before the season begins. People in this group are strongly encouraged to have a written Asthma Action Plan.
“You can download the Canberra Pollen app or follow Canberra Pollen’s Facebook page to receive alerts when grass pollen levels are high. We’d also encourage people to visit the ACT Government’s pollen information page for practical tips.”
More information is available at www.canberrapollen.com.au.
Top image: Professor Simon Haberle. Photo: Jamie Kidston/ANU
Contact the media team
Related tags:
You may also like
We count livestock losses during natural disasters. We should be doing the same for our iconic wildlife
George Wilson argues that if we value our native wildlife, we should monitor their numbers systemically.
The fuel crisis has hit the Pacific hard. The region is responding – but tough choices lie ahead
The fuel crisis poses a bigger challenge to Pacific Island countries than many other nations.
Plants reveal hidden survival strategy for hotter, drier climates
Researchers at ANU have uncovered a mechanism that helps plants continue photosynthesising under extreme heat and dry air conditions, which could improve how scientists predict the impacts of climate change on crops and ecosystems.