News Summary
Atlanta residents brace for allergy season as pollen counts soar to 137 for the first time this year. With tree pollen levels rising, local meteorologists are monitoring the situation closely. Elm, Juniper, Alder, Maple, and Birch trees are responsible for the increased pollen, while grass and weed levels remain low. As the peak pollen season approaches, allergy sufferers should prepare for heightened symptoms and consider updated antihistamine treatments.
Atlanta Faces Allergies As Pollen Count Rises
Atlanta, get ready! The pollen count has officially hit a high of 137 for the first time this year on February 7. This is a significant leap since the last time we saw such numbers was back on September 18 of the previous year. With warm weather being a key player, tree pollen levels are on the rise, as confirmed by the Severe Weather Team 2 Chief Meteorologist.
What’s Causing All the Sneezing?
If you’ve been feeling a little sneezy lately, you’re not alone! The culprits behind this uptick in pollen include some very familiar faces: Elm, Juniper, Alder, Maple, and Birch trees. Thankfully, as of February 7, grass and weed pollen levels remain in the low range. However, mold levels have been classified as moderate, adding to the mix for allergy sufferers.
A Look Back at Pollen Trends
Over the last decade, the average first high pollen count in Atlanta has tended to occur around February 9. While this year is just a couple of days shy of that mark, it’s interesting to note that the earliest recorded first high pollen count in the last 10 years happened on January 8, 2020. On the flip side, the latest was on March 5, 2015, making this year’s count quite noteworthy.
Buckle Up for Peak Pollen Season
As we approach the peak pollen season, which typically falls between late March and early April, residents should brace themselves. During this time, pollen counts can soar above 3,000, with Atlanta’s highest-ever recorded count reaching an astonishing 9,369 on March 20, 2012.
Climate Change and Allergy Seasons
Unfortunately, this rising trend in pollen counts isn’t just a seasonal annoyance; it can be attributed to climate change. This shift has extended allergy seasons and intensified symptoms for many individuals. According to a recent study from Emory University, Black patients in Atlanta are almost twice as likely to visit emergency rooms for pollen-related allergic asthma compared to their white counterparts.
Modern Relief for Old Problems
If you’re one of those experiencing the itchy, watery eyes and a runny nose, don’t worry. There’s good news on the medication front! Newer antihistamines like Claritin, Allegra, and Zyrtec offer relief without the drowsiness that’s often associated with older medications like Benadryl. Combining these antihistamines with nasal steroid sprays such as Flonase can also provide added relief.
What’s Next for Pollen Counts?
As we move into early April, we can expect even higher pollen counts as tree pollination continues. Trees like mulberry, oak, pine, sweet gum, and sycamore will contribute to the rising levels. For those curious about how pollen counts are tracked, it involves a meticulous process of daily collection and detailed examination of samples under a microscope.
Community Service for Allergy Sufferers
Since the early 1980s, pollen counts have been monitored to provide a valuable service to the public. What started as a resource for physicians has become a critical tool for individuals looking to manage their seasonal allergies effectively.
Access to Treatments
However, there’s a silver lining to consider, especially concerning the growing concern for allergy patients. As medication costs continue to rise, access to necessary treatments is becoming increasingly problematic for many.
So, Atlanta, make sure you’re prepared and equipped to tackle this allergy season head-on. Stay aware of the pollen counts, and don’t hesitate to reach for those antihistamines when the sneezing starts!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Unseasonably Warm Weather Surprises Atlanta Residents
Additional Resources
- WSBTV: Today’s Pollen Count
- Wikipedia: Pollen
- Axios: Atlanta Fall Allergy Season
- Google Search: Atlanta Pollen Count
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Pollen Count Update
- Google Scholar: Climate Change and Allergies
- WSBTV: Rising Pollen Count
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Allergy
- CBS News: Hyperlocal Pollen Counts
- Google News: Allergy Treatment Options
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
