Low pollen levels reported in Reykjavík while Akureyri sees increase

This summer, the weather in Reykjavík has significantly impacted pollen levels, with remarkably low amounts of both grass and birch pollen reported. In Akureyri, while birch pollen counts are also low, grass pollen levels have been notably higher, especially in August.

Ewa Maria Przedpelska-Wasowicz, an aerobiologist at the Icelandic Institute of Natural History, noted that there have been just two days in July where pollen counts exceeded 100 particles per cubic meter, with only one day in August surpassing 50 particles per cubic meter. She attributes this low pollen count to the abundant rainfall experienced in southern Iceland this summer. Typically, early summer rains would benefit plant growth, but the excessive rain throughout the season has prevented pollen from thriving.

In contrast, Akureyri has seen a larger quantity of pollen, even though it emerged later than usual due to a colder start to the summer. Many days in July recorded grass pollen counts above 50 particles per cubic meter, with significant increases noted during August.

Comparing this year’s data to previous years is challenging due to new pollen counting equipment being implemented by the Icelandic Institute of Natural History. Nonetheless, it is evident that pollen levels this year are considerably below average but are still higher than last summer, which was characterized by frost in the spring.