IMPACT OF WEATHER PARAMETERS (TEMPERATURE, RAINFALL AND WIND) ON POLLEN CONCENTRATION OF SELECTED TREES IN ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN

Abstract

This study demonstrates the negative impact of pollen load on quality of life caused by pollen allergy. This study revealed seasonal fluctuations in pollen concentrations in Islamabad. The Pakistan Meteorological Department provided a set of data (2019-2021) of daily Temperature, Rainfall, Wind and Pollen concentration . Pollen from 8 allergenic species (Paper Melburry, Grasses, Acacia, Pines, Cannnabis, Eucalyptus, Dandelion, Alternaria) were identified. After the study, this Broussonetia papyifera is the cause of highest pollen levels and thus may have played a key role in exacerbating pollen allergy symptoms in the city. Pollen concentrations were high in March, when climatic conditions were favorable for a large pollen. Meteorological conditions such as maximum and minimum daily temperature had significant positive effects on daily pollen counts, while relative humidity and precipitation were negatively correlated with pollen data. Furthermore, an analysis of weekly pollen counts and weekly visits of allergy patients found a clear positive relationship between these two variables as pollen count and Covid-19 plot suggesting that prolonged lockdown had positive effect on the atmosphere. Specially in the month of march and april the pollen concentration increase from its highest level limit given by WHO. In the light of these findings, some measures should be taken as Paper Mulberry plant should be trimmed as it grows and an alternative specie could be planted to reduce the effect of Paper Mulberry (Broussonetia papyifera) in Islamabad.