The latest data from IQAir’s New York pollen tracker shows an overall low allergy risk across the state this week, meaning most people are likely to experience minimal symptoms. However, sensitive individuals may still notice mild irritation.
IQAir measures pollen levels on a scale of 0 to 4:
The report shows tree, grass and weed pollen all remain at low levels statewide.
Grass pollen season is beginning
While overall pollen counts remain relatively mild, New York is entering a seasonal transition period as grass pollen begins replacing tree pollen as the dominant allergen.
Tree pollen typically peaks during spring, especially from April into May. Grass pollen levels usually rise in late spring and continue through much of the summer, particularly from June through August.
Other real-time allergy trackers already show grass pollen increasing as tree pollen declines, signaling the start of summer allergy season.
That overlap can make late May especially difficult for allergy sufferers because multiple allergens remain active at the same time.
Why pollen levels can change quickly
Pollen conditions can shift rapidly depending on weather patterns.
Several factors influence daily pollen levels:
Because of this, even days categorized as “low” can still produce short-term spikes, especially during warm afternoon hours when pollen counts are typically highest.
Common allergy symptoms
As grass pollen becomes more widespread, allergy symptoms may gradually increase in the coming weeks.
Common symptoms include:
People with mild sensitivities may still notice symptoms even on low-pollen days, while more severe reactions are more common when levels climb into the moderate or high range.
What to expect this summer
Allergy season in New York typically lasts from spring into early fall, with different allergens peaking throughout the year:
As temperatures continue warming, pollen production is expected to increase, potentially leading to more frequent moderate and high pollen days across New York.
Bottom line
Pollen levels across New York are currently low overall, but the seasonal shift toward grass pollen is underway.
That means allergy conditions could worsen over the next several weeks as warmer weather and increased outdoor activity lead to greater pollen exposure.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Why New York’s current ‘low’ pollen count is actually deceiving this week
Reporting by New York Connect Team, USA Today Network / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
