CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Pollen season started early in Charlotte this year but it's starting to wind down as we get closer to summer.
Some people on social media claimed this was the worst year for pollen and allergies, but is that true?
The coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, and allergy season can hit some harder than others. WCNC Charlotte's Verify team saw several claims stating it's one of the worst years for allergies in the Queen City.
OUR SOURCES
When it comes to pollen counts, Jacobs said Charlotte did see higher levels this year. He said it's common for allergies to be higher in the South because of warmer wintertime temperatures.
"We have a warmer climate and with that warmer climate we have an earlier onset of pollen," Jacobs explained.
Jacobs said pollen typically peaks in April and is trending down now that the calendar has turned to May. He said things will only get better for allergy sufferers over the next few months as we get more summertime weather.
"We are going to move away from tree pollen and we are going to move into the grass pollens, as well as the weeds," Jacobs said. "Those are going to kind of ebb and flow over the seasons."
Robinson said it's normal for folks to complain about their allergies this time of year and so far she hasn't seen anything unusual."
"Pollen counts are pretty high, but they generally are this time of year," Robinson said. "If you have allergies, we tell you to wear a mask when outdoors or limit your exposure as best you can because the pollen isn't going anywhere yet."
As for how Charlotte compares to other cities in the region, we don't have it that bad. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America says Charlotte ranks No. 55 out of 100 cities on its allergy report.
It's more challenging for people who live in Greensville, South Carolina, (third) and Raleigh (ninth). Greensboro was No. 19 overall.
Contact Meghan Bragg at mbragg@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.
WCNC Charlotte's Verify series is all about trying to make a difference in the Carolinas by making sure the community has the correct information. WCNC Charlotte outlines concisely what we know and what we don't know. Sometimes the answer can be surprising. Watch previous stories where we verify social media claims in the YouTube playlist below and subscribe to get updated when new videos are uploaded.