Pollen Count Seattle — What You Need to Know
The pollen count in Seattle peaks in March–June. The Pacific Northwest is known for its intense alder and birch pollen seasons, plus some of the highest grass pollen counts in the US.
Why Is Pollen High in Seattle?
The primary allergen is Alder — alder is one of the first trees to pollinate each year, sometimes releasing pollen as early as January. Pollen spikes on warm, dry, and windy days. Rain temporarily clears the air, but counts rebound fast.
Pollen Season in Seattle
- Tree pollen — starts in late winter, peaks April–May. Birch, oak, and cedar are the biggest triggers.
- Grass pollen — peaks late spring through early summer. Affects over 40 million Americans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pollen count in Seattle today?
The current pollen count in Seattle 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 Seattle right now?
The primary allergen in Seattle is Alder. Peak pollen season in Seattle runs from March–June. The 'Active Allergens' section above shows which specific pollens are currently elevated.
When is pollen season in Seattle?
Pollen season in Seattle typically peaks in March–June. Tree pollen starts in late winter, followed by grass pollen in late spring through summer, with minimal ragweed impact in this region.
What should I do when pollen is high in Seattle?
On high pollen days in Seattle: 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 Seattle?
The pollen forecast for Seattle 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.