Earth Gauge: Allergies and Weather

Tree pollens are typically the first allergens to show-up in the spring, causing problems for up to 40 million Americans that suffer from seasonal allergies. In Southern parts of the U.S., trees may have begun producing pollens as early as January, while production may not begin until April farther north. Regardless of where you live, the weather can have a major impact on allergy season:

-A mild winter can result in earlier tree pollination and an earlier start to the allergy season. If warm, mild weather continues into spring, pollen counts can rise.

-A late-freeze that follows a mild winter can reduce tree pollen production, or even halt pollen production completely for some trees.

-Windy weather increases pollen counts by spreading tiny pollens through the air.

-Rainy weather initially decreases pollen counts, but can increase pollen production later in the year by spurring growth of late-spring and summer grasses. If preceding fall or winter seasons were rainy, tree pollen counts may increase during the spring months.

Right now, Cedar, Juniper, Maple, and Elm pollens are the main allergy culprits in Birmingham, and pollen levels are high. If you suffer from seasonal allergies, reduce your exposure to tree pollens by avoiding outdoor activities during the early morning when trees usually emit pollens, between 5:00 and 10:00 a.m. Keep windows closed at night to keep pollens out of your home, and keep windows closed when traveling in the car.

(Sources: American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. "Weather Forecasts Spring Pollen Allergy Severity." http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/03/070320122032.htm; American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. "Tips to Remember: Outdoor Allergens." https://www.aaaai.org/patients/publicedmat/tips/outdoorallergens.stm; www.pollen.com)