Pollen Count Tacoma — What You Need to Know
The pollen count in Tacoma 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 Tacoma?
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 Tacoma
- 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 Tacoma today?
The current pollen count in Tacoma 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 Tacoma right now?
The primary allergen in Tacoma is Alder. Peak pollen season in Tacoma runs from March–June. The 'Active Allergens' section above shows which specific pollens are currently elevated.
When is pollen season in Tacoma?
Pollen season in Tacoma 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 Tacoma?
On high pollen days in Tacoma: 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 Tacoma?
The pollen forecast for Tacoma 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.