Catkins coming back as warmer weather returns

As temperatures climb across northern China, willow and poplar catkins are expected to fill the air, raising seasonal concerns during the Qingming Festival holiday this week, weather officials said on Tuesday.

Huang Zhuo, deputy director of the National Meteorological Center, said the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei province region, as well as Shandong province and Shaanxi province, will enter peak shedding periods for white poplar and weeping willow catkins in early April, affecting public health and daily activities.

Catkin season typically runs from late March to early May, with weather playing a crucial role in their release. Rising temperatures, strong sunlight and dry air accelerate the maturation and dispersal of catkins, Huang said.

"When daily average temperatures exceed 15 C for at least three consecutive days and sunlight lasts more than six hours, female poplar and willow trees release large amounts of catkins," he said. Dry conditions, with humidity below 70 percent, and light winds also contribute to their spread.

Authorities advised residents to take precautions when outdoors.

"People should wear masks and protective eyewear, choose clothing that does not easily attract catkins, and avoid outdoor exposure between 10 am and 4 pm, when dispersal is at its peak," Huang said.

He also recommended residents keep windows closed, install air filters and either use a vacuum cleaner or a damp cloth to remove catkins that enter homes. Drivers should keep car windows shut and use air conditioning while traveling.

Catkin season comes as northern China is experiencing dust storms, further complicating air quality.

Jia Xiaolong, deputy head of the National Climate Center, said China experienced four major dust storms in March.

"Five to six more events are expected in April, with slightly above-average intensity," Jia said, adding that the risk remains high in Northeast and North China.

Meteorologists are advising farmers nationwide to prepare for regional weather risks this month, paying close attention to waterlogging and other threats that could affect spring plowing and crop growth.