Spring pollen reaches high levels through end of week

Spring pollen is intensifying this week, and dry conditions are making it worse. Chief Meteorologist Jason Smith explains in this edition of Next Weather. If you've been sneezing and rubbing your eyes more than usual, you're not alone. Spring pollen is intensifying this week, and dry conditions are making it worse. The culprit? A combination of factors that's creating the perfect storm for allergy sufferers. Oak pollen remains the primary issue right now, but grass pollen is beginning to emerge as we head deeper into peak season—which runs from mid-March through mid-April. Why it's so bad right now Normally, spring showers help wash pollen out of the air. But this year, our region is experiencing a significant rainfall deficit of 8.6 inches through the first three months of 2026. January, February, and March have all been drier than normal, which means pollen is accumulating in the air without being cleared away by rain. Then comes the wind. Gusts between 15 and 25 miles per hour this week—particularly strong on Saturday—stir up pollen from trees and surfaces, spreading it around even more. Without rainfall to settle it down, the cycle continues. What to expect through the weekend High pollen counts will persist through the end of the week. Wind gusts are expected to reach around 25 miles per hour on Saturday, with northerly winds continuing into Sunday. There's a chance of showers on Easter Sunday, which could provide some relief from the pollen—though the timing isn't ideal for outdoor services. Looking ahead Conditions are expected to remain dry through mid-April, which means pollen will likely continue to be a concern. The good news: as we move into late April, trees won't be producing pollen at the same intensity as they are now. If you're suffering If you're allergic to pollen, this is a particularly challenging time. Consider keeping windows closed, checking pollen forecasts before heading outside, and consulting with your doctor about allergy management options. For more Local News from WALA: https://www.fox10tv.com/ For more YouTube Content: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_B1lpgj2DH_wO8T1jJnSYA