While many people rejoice when the weather gets warmer, it’s not a pleasant time for everyone.
Those who suffer from seasonal allergies know to expect difficulties around this time of year, but the severity of allergy season can vary.
The presence of the common causes of spring allergies – pollen and mold – can fluctuate depending on a number of weather-related factors.
More: Longer Allergy Season
Here are some of the conditions that can affect pollen counts, according to the experts at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology.
Length of the Growing Season
Longer growing seasons might be a good thing for famers and gardeners, but it increases the time pollen and mold are present.
Erratic Weather
A warmer than usual winter season, as experienced this year, makes trees pollinate earlier. If spring weather fluctuates greatly between warm and cold spells, it can result in more intense periods of pollen release during the warm spells, when plants take the cue to grow and release pollen.
Amount of Rainfall
Rain can be either a good thing or a bad thing for allergy sufferers, depending on when it happens. The worst allergy seasons are often preceded by a wet spring, which promotes rapid plant growth later on. But rain can also provide a much-needed respite for those with allergies, as a heavy rainfall can help clear the air of pollen.
Wind
Dry and windy weather is not kind to people with allergies, as the wind spreads pollen and mold.
Learn: Allergy Capitals? The Worst Allergy Cities in the U.S.
Since so many factors contribute to high pollen counts, it’s all but impossible to predict how intense an allergy season will be. However, it’s a good idea to get ready to take steps to limit your exposure to allergens.
