x
Breaking News
More () »

Spring-like weather means early allergy season has sprung

Chief Meteorologist Brad Panovich says, in some cases, it's the earliest bloom in 39 years

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Feeling the scratchy throat, runny nose, and itchy eyes? If you're thinking it's a little too early for spring allergies, you're right -- and yet, they're here.

"Yeah, it does not feel like winter at all, and it's February," Findley Merritt said. "It's very warm, and outside our window, we just always hear birds starting to chirp, which to us just signifies spring."

A look around the Queen City shows mostly leafless trees but scattered among them, are some pioneers with blooms beginning. Overall, folks have been feeling the mild winter and so have some of the plants.

"Even right after Christmas, it was mid-60s, mid-70s. So, it's been kind of strange that we haven't had an actual winter--enjoying it while it lasts," John Eskridge said.

WCNC Charlotte's Chief Meteorologist Brad Panovich says the spring-like blooms are weeks early.

"This is crazy," Brad says. "In some cases, we are 20-plus days early for the plants coming out, and in some cases, this is the earliest start in 39 years."

And if you're thinking another cold snap will stop the bloom, it won't. Brad says it might slow things down, but it doesn't stop it, and really just prolongs the allergy misery.

Allergy specialists recommend that pollen-sufferers:

  • Start allergy medicine early
  • Stay hydrated
  • Use eye drops and nasal sprays
  • Use good air filters
  • Shower off before bed

MORE ON WCNC CHARLOTTE:

Ryan Newman in ‘serious condition’ after violent crash on last lap of Daytona 500

'I don't think it's right' | Mom says she drove baby more than 2 hours for treatment with no burn center in Charlotte

Hickory Police looking for suspect accused of putting metal tacks in front of the station

Plane makes emergency landing at Charlotte-Douglas

Before You Leave, Check This Out