If you feel like your eyes are burning and nose is running in overdrive this weekend, you’re not just imagining it.
Atlanta recorded its two highest pollen counts in 35 years this weekend, according to Atlanta Allergy and Asthma.
Atlanta Allergy and Asthma, which treats patients across the region and tracks daily pollen counts, recorded 14,801 pollen grains per cubic meter of air over the past 24 hours on Saturday, and 11,159 pollen grains on Sunday. Both pollen counts broke the record previously set in March 2012 at 9,369, according to data collected by the group.
Saturday’s pollen count is almost double the highest count recorded last year at 8,740 on April 2, 2024.
Atlanta Allergy and Asthma said it took its technicians over two hours to count the pollen grains on the microscopic slide Saturday morning.
“People sensitive to tree pollen should take precautions and follow their allergy care plans,” the group said on Facebook Saturday. “At these levels, even people who are not allergic to tree and weed pollens can be impacted.”
The pollen activity from trees is labeled “extremely high” by Atlanta Allergy and Asthma, a threshold obtained at 1,500 pollen counts.
Top contributors of Atlanta’s pollen include oak, pine, sycamore, sweet gum and birch trees. Pollen count from weeds like mugwort and sheep sorrel was labeled “high,” while mold activity was considered “low.”
Credit: Miguel Martinez
Credit: Miguel Martinez
The record-breaking pollen count comes on the heels of a week of “extremely high” levels of pollen. Friday’s pollen count was recorded at 6,345.
Dr. Lily Hwang of Atlanta Allergy & Asthma told the AJC that Georgia can expect to see the peak of allergy season continue from mid-March to mid-April.
She added that over-the-counter antihistamines must be taken well in advance of exposure to allergens, before experiencing symptoms.
Other tips for managing seasonal allergies include keeping your car and house windows closed, regularly changing or cleaning air filters and showering when you get home or before going to bed.
About the Author
Keep Reading
The Latest
Featured
