Tree pollen is dominating, and early-season numbers suggest another intense allergy season ahead.
ATLANTA, Georgia — If it felt like the pollen hit you the second you walked outside today, you’re definitely not alone.
The total pollen count has come in at 2,792 grains per cubic meter, which is firmly in that very high range. In simple terms, that’s more than enough to trigger symptoms, whether it’s sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, or just that general “spring haze” feeling.
Right now, trees are doing most of the heavy lifting. Pine, oak, sweet gum, sycamore, and birch are the main contributors. You’ve probably noticed the layer of yellow dust on your car or porch, that’s largely from pine trees. It’s messy and everywhere this time of year, even though trees like oak and birch tend to cause more allergy symptoms.
All of this data comes from Atlanta Allergy & Asthma’s pollen counting station, which is certified by the National Allergy Bureau. It’s the only NAB-certified station in the Atlanta area, and it measures how many pollen grains are floating around in a cubic meter of air over a 24-hour period, giving us a solid picture of what we’re breathing in.
And honestly, this season didn’t waste any time getting started. We are officially into the 2026 pollen season, and it’s already been pretty active. Back on March 12, the count hit 3,226, which is the second-highest early-season reading ever recorded for mid-February through mid-March. So far this year, we’ve already had 10 high pollen days and 3 days that reached the extremely high category.
If last year is any indication, we could be in for more of the same. Between mid-February and mid-May of 2025, pollen levels were in the high or extremely high range 63 percent of the time. In other words, most days during the peak season were tough for allergy sufferers.
Now, today’s number is high, but it’s still nowhere near the most extreme day we’ve seen. That honor goes to March 29, 2025, when Atlanta shattered a 35-year record with a massive count of 14,801. That was a truly brutal day if you deal with allergies.
Days like today tend to feel worse because of the weather setup. When it’s dry, pollen sticks around in the air longer, and with lighter winds, it just kind of hangs there instead of getting blown away. Add in multiple trees pollinating at the same time, and it really builds up.
If you’re trying to get through a day like this, a few simple things can help. Keeping your windows closed, especially in the afternoon, can cut down on how much pollen gets inside. It also helps to change clothes and rinse off after you’ve been outdoors. And if you have an air filter at home, today’s a good day to use it.
