The Carolinas are currently facing heightened pollen levels this spring, which is leading to increased allergy symptoms among residents.

Patricia Lugar, an allergy specialist, highlighted that March 2025 recorded the highest grass pollen levels in North Carolina since 1999, exacerbating the allergy situation.

This surge in pollen levels has been attributed to climate change, with North Carolina experiencing record-breaking counts in late March and early April.

According to Lauren Jenkins, a doctoral candidate in ecology, climate change is extending growing seasons, resulting in earlier and prolonged pollen production.

Warmer winters in the South are preventing plants from entering dormancy, leading to year-round exposure to allergens.

Factors such as higher carbon dioxide levels, mild winters, warm springs, and windy weather are contributing to increased pollen intensity and dispersion.

Different types of pollen peak at various times throughout the year, with tree pollen dominating in spring and ragweed pollen prevalent in summer and early fall.

Students, particularly at Duke University, are advised to avoid outdoor activities during peak pollen times, which typically occur between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Many students at Duke are struggling with significant allergy symptoms, making it difficult for them to manage their conditions during peak pollen seasons.

Lugar recommends over-the-counter allergy medications and offers specific treatments at the Duke Asthma, Allergy and Airway Center for those experiencing severe symptoms.

Pollen measuring stations confirm that cities like Raleigh and Greensboro rank among the top ten allergy capitals in the United States.

The Urban Heat Island Effect in urban areas further exacerbates ground-level ozone impacts, increasing asthma and allergy rates among residents.