Major Pollen Surge Expected in 20 US Cities This Spring
A significant increase in pollen levels, described as a 'pollen tsunami,' is anticipated across various regions in the United States this year. This surge is attributed to a combination of intense rainstorms, warmer temperatures, and drought conditions, particularly affecting the western parts of the country. According to AccuWeather, tree pollen levels have already risen in the South and West, with grass pollen expected to peak later in the spring and early summer. The Ohio Valley is predicted to experience exceptionally high tree pollen levels. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) has released its 2026 Allergy Capitals report, ranking the top 100 cities in the contiguous U.S. based on the challenges they present to individuals with pollen allergies. These rankings consider factors such as pollen counts, the use of allergy medications, and the availability of allergists.