CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Strong storms swept through the Carolinas Wednesday, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and several tornado warnings. While rain generally puts a damper on the day, some were rejoicing that the rain, at the very least, should wash away the brutal pollen. Or does it?
THE SOURCES
THE QUESTION
Does rain always cut down on pollen levels?
THE ANSWER
No, rain does not always reduce pollen levels. Different types of rain events can impact pollen counts in different ways, Panovich said. Sometimes, rain can actually make things worse for allergy sufferers.
THE QUESTION
What kinds of rain help best with pollen counts?
THE ANSWER
Panovich said light, steady, long-lasting showers are the best conditions for decreasing pollen levels. He said a wind from the north is more favorable than one from the south, which can carry more pollen in from warmer regions.
On the other hand, scattered storms would be the worst-case scenario for pollen-sufferers since sudden, aggressive downpours can bust apart pollen clusters into smaller particles and send them into the air.
According to the AAFA, rain during an already humid season can also enhance mold and dust mite counts, since mold thrives in damp conditions and dust mites multiply well too.
THE QUESTION
Did Wednesday's rain event help the pollen counts in the Carolinas?
THE ANSWER
Unfortunately, no. Pollen counts remain high this week, with levels forecast to climb through the weekend.
Contact Vanessa Ruffes at vruffes@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Contact Brad Panovich at bpanovich@wcnc.com or follow him on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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