Pollen Count New York — What You Need to Know
The pollen count in New York peaks in April–September. Northeast allergy season runs April through October, with birch and oak leading in spring and ragweed peaking in fall.
Why Is Pollen High in New York?
The primary allergen is Birch — birch pollen is among the most allergenic of all tree pollens, triggering symptoms in up to 25% of allergy sufferers. Pollen spikes on warm, dry, and windy days. Rain temporarily clears the air, but counts rebound fast.
Pollen Season in New York
- Tree pollen — starts in early spring, peaks April–May. Birch, oak, and cedar are the biggest triggers.
- Grass pollen — peaks late spring through early summer. Affects over 40 million Americans.
- Ragweed — August through October. One plant releases a billion grains per season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pollen count in New York today?
The current pollen count in New York is updated every 12 hours using live data. Levels are rated Low, Moderate, High, or Very High based on pollen concentration in the air. Select the live badge above for today's reading.
What type of pollen is high in New York right now?
The primary allergen in New York is Birch. Peak pollen season in New York runs from April–September. The 'Active Allergens' section above shows which specific pollens are currently elevated.
When is pollen season in New York?
Pollen season in New York typically peaks in April–September. Tree pollen starts in early spring, followed by grass pollen in late spring through summer, and ragweed from August through October.
What should I do when pollen is high in New York?
On high pollen days in New York: check the forecast before going outside, schedule outdoor activities for the afternoon (pollen peaks 5–10 AM), keep windows closed and use AC, take antihistamines before exposure rather than after symptoms start, and shower after spending time outdoors to remove pollen from skin and hair.
How accurate is the pollen forecast for New York?
The pollen forecast for New York is based on the Google Pollen API, which combines real-time sensor data, weather forecasts, and plant biology models. Forecasts are updated every 12 hours and are generally accurate within 1 level (e.g., Moderate vs. High). Actual counts can vary by neighborhood depending on local vegetation.