Spring has arrived, and pollen levels are already on the rise across the Triangle, bringing a familiar yellow coating to cars, sidewalks and outdoor surfaces.
According to the latest pollen count, tree pollen is the main contributor in the area. Grass and weed pollen remain low for now, but are expected to increase in the coming weeks.
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“I went outside this morning, and my car was coated in a thin layer of yellow pollen,” said NC State student meteorologist Meghan Giller.
The effects of pollen are already visible throughout the region.
A walk through the WRAL Azalea Garden on Saturday morning revealed a noticeable dusting of yellow on windows, tables and even tire tracks on the road nearby. Footprints leading into the building also carried traces of pollen indoors, highlighting just how widespread the particles have become.
This yellow coating is largely due to pine pollen, which has been accumulating over the past several weeks. Pine trees release large amounts of pollen into the air, especially during warm, dry and breezy conditions, making it one of the most visible signs of the season.
While current levels may cause frustration for allergy sufferers, this is only the beginning of the spring pollen cycle.
Pollen counts typically peak from late March into early April, driven primarily by tree pollen. By mid to late April, tree pollen levels usually begin to decline. However, relief may be short-lived, as grass and weed pollen start to increase heading into May.
For now, residents across the Triangle can expect to see more pollen in the days ahead as spring continues to take hold.
Taking simple precautions and staying aware of daily forecasts can help manage symptoms, especially on warm, breezy days when pollen levels tend to spike.
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Meghan Giller is a senior at North Carolina State University studying Meteorology with minors in Science Communication and Environmental Science. She has broadcast experience as a weather intern at WGHP FOX 8 and as an on-air meteorologist for Carolina Week. Meghan is passionate about clearly communicating impactful weather to the public and continues to grow through leadership in NC State’s meteorology organizations.