Allergy Season Lengthens Across U.S. as Climate Changes

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According to newly released data from Climate Central, allergy season has grown longer in every part of the United States since the 1970s, with an average increase of 21 extra 'freeze-free' days. This gives plants more time to grow and release the pollen that triggers seasonal allergies for many people.

Why it matters

The lengthening of allergy season is a direct result of climate change, as warmer temperatures and fewer freeze days allow plants to pollinate for a longer period of time each year. This can have significant health impacts, leading to more severe and prolonged allergy symptoms for those affected.

The details

The Climate Central analysis found that allergy season has expanded by an average of 21 days across the country since the 1970s. Some of the regions with the biggest increases include the Northeast, where the season is now 24 days longer, and the Midwest, which has seen a 23-day expansion.

• The analysis looked at data from the 1970s to the present day.
• Allergy season has grown by an average of 21 extra 'freeze-free' days nationwide since the 1970s.

What’s next

Climate experts warn that allergy season will likely continue to grow longer in the coming years as the effects of climate change become more pronounced, leading to increased suffering for those with seasonal allergies.