The arrival of springlike weather marks the beginning of an extended allergy season in the United States, expected to last throughout the summer. This year could be particularly challenging for millions of individuals from the mid-Atlantic to the Pacific Northwest. AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist and Allergy Expert Alan Reppert noted that about one-quarter of U.S. adults and nearly one in five children have been diagnosed with seasonal allergies.
The primary allergens to watch out for are pollen from trees, grass, and ragweed, each peaking at different times throughout the year. Even during an ‘average’ season, there could be periods of extreme pollen levels, especially after dry spells and warm temperatures, particularly in the Northeast.
Tree pollen typically kicks off the allergy season, with levels already rising in the southern United States. The worst tree pollen is expected in parts of the Gulf Coast, central Plains, northern Rockies, and Pacific Northwest. On the other hand, drier weather in the Southwest is likely to bring an early end to the tree pollen season.
Grass pollen follows tree pollen, starting along the Gulf coast in April and lasting through the summer into early fall. This year, the Northeast and Pacific Northwest are anticipated to have high levels of grass pollen, particularly in June and July. Dry weather in the Southeast may limit grass pollen levels during the summer.
Weed pollen, including thistle, sagebrush, and mugwort, overlaps with the grass pollen season and may peak in the Tennessee Valley due to increased moisture late in the summer. The coastal Carolinas, southern Plains, and parts of the Gulf Coast may also experience an extended ragweed season this year.
While the Northwest may face high levels of tree and grass pollen, ragweed levels are expected to be lower. Similarly, reduced ragweed pollen levels are forecasted for most of the Rockies and northern Plains.
To manage allergy symptoms during peak seasons, consider avoiding early mornings when pollen levels are highest, and try to stay indoors during these times. Additionally, embracing rainy weather can help alleviate symptoms for allergy sufferers.
Here are some tips to help you manage pollen allergies:
– Rain can help reduce pollen in the air, so take advantage of the time after a rain shower to enjoy the outdoors with lower pollen levels.
– Keep your home a safe haven by keeping windows closed and changing air filters regularly to ensure clean, pollen-free air all year round.
– Change your clothes right after being outside to avoid bringing allergens indoors.
– Stay informed about the allergy forecast in your area by checking AccuWeather.com for the latest information.
