High Pollen Levels Expected in North Carolina's High Country

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Pollen levels in North Carolina's High Country are currently running medium-high and are expected to climb further into the Very High range by Thursday as temperatures warm up, according to data from WeatherBug, the Forsyth County Pollen Program, and AccuWeather. Oak pollen is the dominant contributor, with ongoing drought conditions across the region compounding the problem.

Why it matters

High pollen levels can cause significant discomfort and health issues for those with allergies in the High Country region. The forecast increase in pollen is concerning as it coincides with peak tree pollen season, which typically produces the highest pollen densities of the year in western North Carolina.

The details

WeatherBug's Boone forecast shows a pollen index of 9.1 — rated Medium-High — with alder, cedar/juniper, and maple as the active types. Levels are forecast to push into the Very High range by Thursday as temperatures warm. The Forsyth County Pollen Program in Winston-Salem is reporting High tree pollen levels, with oak as the dominant contributor at 66 percent, followed by pine family at 17 percent, mulberry at 5 percent, and maple and elm at 4 percent each. AccuWeather is forecasting an Extremely High tree pollen risk for Boone this week.

• Pollen levels are currently running medium-high this week.
• Pollen levels are forecast to reach Very High by Thursday.

What’s next

Residents in the High Country should monitor pollen levels and take steps to reduce exposure, such as keeping windows and doors closed, showering and changing clothes after being outdoors, and considering allergy medication before symptoms begin.