How does the weather affect pollen?

The wind transports the pollen around, and it can travel long distances, potentially hundreds of miles. The rain usually suppresses the transportation of pollen, clearing the air and causing pollen levels to fall.

How does temperature affect pollen count?

Changes in temperature during spring are an important factor on pollen levels. Warm air and higher temperatures will produce an increase in pollen counts. On the positive side, a sudden drop or even a freeze in temperatures can halt pollen production.

Does rain make pollen worse or better?

Despite what you might think, the rain actually makes allergy symptoms worse for most people, instead of better. That’s because the rain bursts the pollen particles prior to washing them away, putting higher concentrations of particles into the air.

Does weather affect hayfever?

The weather plays a significant role in the production, distribution and dispersion of pollen. Rain, wind, temperature and sunshine all affect how much pollen will be produced and how much it will be dispersed.

Does rain reduce pollen?

Light, steady rain showers can wash the pollen away, keeping it from flying through the air. The humidity that follows helps keep pollen down too. Rain can have a welcome benefit for those with pollen allergies.

Does rain make pollen worse?

Dr. Pien says yes, allergies can get much worse when it rains. This is due to changes in the amount of pollen in the air. She adds that some studies have even shown that pollen grains can rupture or burst, and then be inhaled by people with allergies and asthma.

Why do allergies get worse at night?

Researchers found that certain types of pollen, which are usually suspended higher in the atmosphere while air is warm, tend to fall closer to the ground level during cool hours at night. If you sleep next to an open window, you may be exposed to these, which worsen your allergy symptoms.

Is pollen worse after rain?

According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, grass and weed pollen is higher when it rains. When raindrops hit the ground and break up clumps of pollen into smaller particles, those particles quickly spread out.