On April 5, Beijing Gardening and Greening Bureau and Beijing Meteorological Service jointly issued the city's first catkin forecast in 2021. According to the forecast, catkins (wind-pollinated flowers of willow and poplar trees) will be seen in the central and southern areas of the city during the period of April 5 to 8. The northeastern part of the city will experience catkins from April 7 to 10, whereas the northwestern part of the city will do 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 these 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 minimizing exposure to catkins. It is also advised that mornings, evenings, and periods after rain are optimal for outdoor activities during that timeframe.

(Note: Content source is from China Daily.)