Tengrinews.kz — Poplar fluff season is in full swing in Astana. Residents of the capital are flooding social media with complaints about the "summer snow" that gets into eyes, noses, and clothing. Meanwhile, the Department of Emergency Situations (DES) has warned that the fluff is more than just a nuisance—it can also spark major fires.
What residents are saying
Over the weekend, Astana residents began sharing videos and photos of streets blanketed in poplar fluff. Locals reported that being outdoors has become a struggle, as the fluff flies into their faces, clings to their clothes, and causes significant discomfort.
"I get it—poplars clean the air of dust and exhaust, retain moisture, and provide a windbreak. But this fluff is unbearable. They should have planted fewer 'female' trees to begin with. It's impossible to be outside: your clothes are covered in it, and it gets into your nose and eyes," one resident wrote.
Some residents noted that the situation is particularly difficult for allergy sufferers.
"Fellow residents, how does that poplar fluff taste? It’s everywhere today—in your nose, in your mouth. Why are there so many poplars in the capital? Do they even do any good?" and "The fluff apocalypse has begun. Who decided to plant trees in Astana that bring 'snow' in the summer heat every year? It’s everywhere: nose, eyes, hair, food, and clothes. It feels like we’re breathing fluff instead of air. And don’t even get me started on allergy sufferers—for them, this isn't summer, it's survival season," users shared online.
Warnings from the Department of Emergency Situations
The Astana Department of Emergency Situations (DES) warned that poplar fluff is highly flammable.
"Poplar fluff ignites very easily and burns rapidly, spreading over large areas," the DES noted.
Rescuers urged residents not to set the fluff on fire and to prevent children from playing with matches or lighters in courtyards.
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The DES recommends:
- do not set poplar fluff on fire;
- ensure children do not do so;
- do not leave matches and lighters easily accessible;
- soak accumulations of fluff with water;
- promptly clear fluff away from houses, cars, and buildings.
According to rescuers, fluff accumulation is especially dangerous near parking lots, trash collection points, and dry grass, where fire can spread rapidly.
