The Columbia SC pollen count is skyrocketing and it’ll soon get worse. See for yourself
The official start of spring is still weeks away, but pollen season is in full swing in Columbia and is expected to get worse this week.
Allergy season has already made its presence known across South Carolina, even though spring officially starts on March 20. February was unseasonably warm, which triggered trees and other plants to bloom earlier than normal.
Blooming plants means plenty of pollen.
And according to pollen.com, Columbia and the Midlands have gotten some of the worst amounts of that icky yellow stuff in recent days.
Columbia pollen count
Pollen.com estimates show that Columbia had a high pollen count of 10.4 on Monday and 10.6 on Tuesday. It’s pollen count rating system ranges from 0-2.4 on the low end to 9.7-12 on the high end.
The site forecasts Columbia will see high pollen counts for the rest of the week, with a 10 on Wednesday, followed by increases of 10.4 on Thursday, 11.4 on Friday and 11.3 on Saturday.
The rest of the Midlands is also expected to see similar pollen levels the rest of the week.
The site adds that juniper, elm and alder trees have been the main sources of allergens in Columbia this week.
Allergies in South Carolina
According to the Medical University of South Carolina, tree pollen is the main cause of trouble for most allergy sufferers each spring. The specific culprits are oak, pine, willow and birch trees. Also, tree pollen season tends to end around May.
Allergies are the result of immune system reactions to allergens. When a person encounters something they are allergic to, different chemicals, including histamine, are released. All allergy symptoms are caused by these chemicals.
How to manage spring allergies in South Carolina
- Wear a mask while doing yard work
- Shower after being outside
- Regularly chance A/C filters
- Use an air purifier
- Keep windows closed during the pollen season
This story was originally published March 1, 2023 at 6:00 AM.
