CHARLOTTE — The skies are clear, but the pollen count is high, and it is expected to get higher this week.
Channel 9 meteorologist Christine Rapp took a closer look at what's causing the bad week for allergy sufferers across the Carolinas.
The local parks and playgrounds were packed with children Monday enjoying spring break, but for some, spending time outdoors is limited due to an increase in pollen.
The very warm winter and start to spring has kicked off the allergy season earlier than usual.
Typically, rainfall helps lower pollen impacts by clearing out the air, washing it off the cars and making it easier to breathe.
Last week, Charlotte recorded nearly 2 inches of rain, which temporarily gave some relief.
The drier air that moved in over the weekend caused a major spike in pollen numbers across the area.
Dr. Michael Sicard has noticed a steady increase in patients suffering from allergies over the past few weeks.
"Well, this is peak allergy season, so with all the beautiful weather, folks are spending more time outdoors, and then the allergies are matching our seasons,” Sicard said. “Trees are very high right now and (you can) expect grasses to kick in another couple of weeks."
Dry, warm and breezy days are typically when there is an increase in pollen counts, and with quiet weather ahead Tuesday, you can expect those numbers to continue to climb.
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