On April 5, Beijing Gardening and Greening Bureau and Beijing Meteorological Service jointly issued the first catkin forecast of Beijing in 2021. According to the forecast, catkin will be seen in the central and southern areas of the city during the period from April 5 to 8. The northeastern part of the city will witness catkins from April 7 to 10, whereas the northwestern part of the city will see catkins from April 8 to 11.

Experts predict that the first peak period for catkins will be from April 10 to 15, and will primarily affect urban areas within the Fifth Ring Road. Most of the catkins are produced by the Chinese white poplar (populus tomentosa). 

People are advised to take protective measures when they go out. Disposable dust masks, sunglasses, protective goggles, and scarves are all effective at blocking out catkins. In addition, it is better to do outdoor activities such as exercise in the morning, in the evening, or after the rain when there are fewer catkins.

(Note: Content source is from China Daily.)