France Places 79 Departments on Red Alert for Pollen Allergies

Unseasonably warm weather has triggered widespread tree pollination, causing severe allergy risks across most of the country.

The National Aerobiological Surveillance Network (RNSA) has issued red alerts for 79 of France's departments due to high pollen concentrations, with only the northwest remaining under a yellow alert.
Key contributors to the elevated allergy risks include pollens from cypress, thuja, juniper, hazel, and alder trees, which are currently in peak bloom.
The unusually warm, sunny, and windy weather has accelerated tree pollination and pollen dispersion, exacerbating allergy symptoms for millions of residents.
Experts link the worsening allergy season to climate change, which increases pollen production and intensifies respiratory symptoms through air pollution interactions.
Health recommendations include limiting outdoor activities during high pollen periods, keeping windows closed, and following hygiene practices such as rinsing hair and drying laundry indoors.