Springtime Pollen Blankets Triad, Triggering Allergies

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The Triad region of North Carolina is experiencing a peak in tree pollen season, with oak, pine, birch, and other common trees blanketing cars, homes, and outdoor surfaces with tiny pollen particles. This is causing significant discomfort for allergy sufferers, who are dealing with sneezing, congestion, and itchy eyes. Experts say warmer, dry, and windy weather is spreading the pollen quickly across the area.

Why it matters

Seasonal allergies affect millions of people each year, and the Triad region is no exception. High pollen counts can significantly impact quality of life, productivity, and public health. Understanding the pollen cycle and taking steps to reduce exposure is crucial for allergy sufferers in the area.

The details

According to pollen counter and environmental specialist Rob Russ, the pollen season starts as early as February with cedar and juniper, followed by alder and maple, before oaks dominate the air in late March and early April. 'There are so many oak trees in our area that when they start to put out a lot of pollen, the numbers really go crazy,' he said. Shawn Taylor, air quality public information officer with the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, described pollen season as 'a progression, kind of like a relay race between different plant species, passing the baton, racing to that finish line.'

• The pollen season starts as early as February with cedar and juniper.
• Alder and maple pollen follows in early spring.
• Oak pollen dominates the air in late March and early April.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Experts recommend that allergy sufferers take steps to reduce pollen exposure, such as staying indoors on high-pollen days, keeping windows closed, washing hair before bed, changing clothes after spending time outside, and rinsing pets.