Guardia Civil warns drivers in southern Spain of approaching “explosive” hay fever

Hay fever season is upon us again and poses fresh dangers, especially for drivers in Andalucia as pollen counts are rising abnormally rapidly across the region.

University specialists are saying there are very high concentrations of olive and parietaria pollen in the local atmosphere. Plentiful winter rains nourished plants extensively, while recent early warmth has been accelerating the entire pollination cycle.

María del Mar Trigo from the University of Malaga aerobiology group is calling for extra caution among those sensitive to olive pollen, and now specialists predict the concentrations will keep rising in the coming weeks.

Factors behind “explosive” hay fever in Andalucia

Abundant precipitation over autumn and winter boosted plant growth and pollen output according to hospital allergy chiefs. Doctor Leticia Herrero at Quirónsalud Malaga links the higher pollen to how rains water plants and lift production levels. Doctor José Manuel Barceló at Vithas Malaga points to the sudden heat as a key factor speeding up the process.

Olive pollen proves one of the most problematic types in southern Spain, with peaks expected late April into May. Particles from this source travel distances of 100 kilometres so grains reach Malaga even from North Africa. Encina (holm oak) and cork oak pollens register extremely elevated amounts yet provoke reactions in few individuals only. Pollen from pines, ribwort chenopod pollen and dock pollen also fills the air during this full spring period. This combination creates conditions ripe for difficult symptoms in allergy sufferers.

Guardia Civil issues allergy warning for drivers

Traffic police who deal with elevated numbers of accidents at this time of year in Spain advise checking antihistamine labels for drowsiness effects before getting behind the wheel. Also, a single sneeze at motorway speeds covers multiple metres without clear vision for the driver.

Safe travel depends on full concentration and clear vision throughout the entirety of every journey. Motorists receive this message directly from Guardia Civil social media channels. Attention at the wheel remains essential to prevent accidents during high pollen days.

Pollen monitoring tools for those in Andalucia

Those living in or visiting the south of Spain should consult real-time data on the aerobiologia.uma.es website or via the Polen REA mobile application. These resources detail pollen types and readings for specific locations. Information covers olive, grass, plantain and other common varieties active now. Users can download the application easily for updates on their phone.

Tips to handle hay fever without risking safety

• Protective sunglasses and masks help reduce exposure during breezy conditions.
• Common medications include antihistamines, nasal sprays and eye drops for immediate relief.
• Immunotherapy offers a longer course that retrains immune responses over several years.
• Doctors stress early medical checks because symptoms appear across all age groups.

Colds clear up fast, but hay fever effects stretch for weeks or months, so correct identification matters. Early action will lead to better management of the condition overall. And don’t forget to take some Kleenex on your journeys.