Madrid is experiencing record-high pollen levels, particularly from cypress trees, triggering a surge in allergy cases and overwhelming local allergists. The Comunidad de Madrid has issued a red alert for much of the region as pollen counts reach levels unseen in the past 45 years, according to reports from Telemadrid.
The combination of recent rainfall and rising temperatures has created “an explosive mixture” for allergy sufferers, according to the regional pollen network, Palinocam. Levels are particularly high in Alcobendas, Aranjuez, Getafe, and Madrid-Ciudad Universitaria, with the Arganzuela district expected to join them at a red alert level on Thursday, according to Zona Retiro.
Even as spring is typically associated with allergies, the current surge is driven by cypress pollen, which is the most prevalent in the atmosphere during winter and the primary allergen during this season. These trees and shrubs, commonly used in gardens and as hedges, release their pollen now. The Comunidad de Madrid monitors pollen levels year-round through a network of 10 volumetric samplers distributed throughout the region.
The monitoring process involves collecting air samples on adhesive surfaces, which are then manually analyzed in a laboratory using optical microscopy to provide daily pollen predictions. Currently, Coslada, Las Rozas, and the Salamanca district are experiencing medium levels of cypress pollen, while Collado Villalba remains the only station in the region reporting low levels, as reported by La Razón.
The surge in pollen is impacting healthcare services, with allergy specialists reporting a significant increase in patient consultations. The Hospital de Alcorcón, a reference center for personalized allergy management, including bee and wasp stings, is likely experiencing increased demand alongside other regional facilities.
The Comunidad de Madrid’s pollen information service provides daily updates from January to June and weekly updates for the remainder of the year. Residents can subscribe to SMS and email alerts regarding pollen forecasts and levels. The subscription period is currently open.