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With spring officially underway and warm weather approaching, expert meteorologists believe the nation’s pollen count is poised to surpass historical averages in 39 states across America – leading to an insufferable allergy season.
According to AccuWeather forecasts, those who suffer from seasonal allergies need to start preparing now for an intense allergy season – one which could last longer and linger into the fall months.
The service’s predictions for 2025 indicate tree, grass and weed pollen levels will be elevated in certain regions – with tree pollen expected to be above historical averages across a 2,000-mile stretch from the Gulf Coast to the Northwest, spanning nearly two dozen states.
Tree pollen – the first of three primary allergens in the U.S. – begins in the spring once ground temperatures climb to anywhere above 42° F. This is followed by a wave of grass pollen in the late spring and early summer, which in turn is followed by weed pollen in the late summer and fall.
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As for the Carolinas, southern Plains and the Gulf Coast, these areas could experience the highest concentrations of weed pollen – while increased rainfall in late August and September could lead to a second peak in weed pollen, according to a forecast map from AccuWeather.
“Millions of people living with seasonal allergies will be struggling with more intense symptoms that will likely stick around longer this year in many areas,” AccuWeather senior meteorologist and allergy expert Alan Reppert said.
Dry weather in the Southwest through the spring should ultimately help the season end there after a ferocious start, but weed pollen is expected to be at its worst in July – peaking across the Tennessee Valley. This could lead to a second peak due to a rise in moisture toward the end of the summer.
Reppert and his fellow colleagues also noted that warmer spring temperatures will upend the colder and snowier winter that most of the country experienced.
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Senior meteorologist and climate expert Brett Anderson said the hotter weather would be consistent with springs in recent years and foster longer growing seasons and earlier starts to allergy season – with changing climate conditions allowing allergy seasons to last one to four weeks longer in many parts of the country, in comparison to 50 years ago.
“There will be variability year to year depending on spring temperatures, storm tracks, and additional moisture from tropical storms and hurricanes, but the overall trend is clear,” said Anderson.
AccuWeather noted that the Northeast and the Pacific Northwest, particularly in June and July, will likely face the most severe grass-related allergy seasons due to a probable wet and warm start to summer.
Anderson warned that if warmer temperatures hold, the trend of longer and more intense allergy seasons will likely persist over the next decade.
Rain may provide temporary relief, but experts recommend checking local pollen forecasts, limiting outdoor exposure during peak times (especially during the early morning), and using air purifiers to help manage allergy symptoms.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR…
Erin Parrott is a Greenville, S.C. native who graduated from J. L. Mann High School in 2021. She is currently a senior at the University of South Carolina majoring in broadcast journalism. Got feedback or a tip for Erin? Email her here.
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