Pollen in the Air: How Dry Weather Hits South Carolina

South Carolina is dealing with a tough weather mix. The state is still in severe to extreme drought, and the dry air keeps pollen from washing away. Warm temperatures and steady breezes let pollen stay airborne longer, making allergies worse for many residents. When rain is scarce, trees and grasses release more pollen. The dust that settles on cars and porches shows how much is out there. Because the air stays dry, this pollen doesn’t get cleaned up and can travel farther. People who are sensitive to seasonal allergens feel the impact each day. Pollen counts in Upstate cities like Greenville, Spartanburg, and Anderson are high for ragweed and dust. Grass pollen is moderate, while tree pollen stays low right now. The biggest spike happens between 10 a. m. and 4 p. m. , so it’s good to plan outdoor activities around those hours if you’re prone to sneezing or itchy eyes.Doctors suggest getting ahead of symptoms by taking allergy medicine before you feel the first signs. If pollen is already bothering you, a quick shower and a change of clothes can remove it from skin and hair. Inside the house, keep windows shut during high counts, use air purifiers, vacuum regularly, and wipe down surfaces to cut indoor allergens. A brief chance of rain is on the horizon from May 9 to 11. Even light showers can lower pollen levels for a short time by washing particles out of the air. However, once the rain stops, pollen can rise again quickly, so staying prepared with medication and indoor cleaning is still essential.