McChord AFB, Washington Pollen Count

Frequently asked

When is pollen worst in McChord AFB?

McChord AFB runs the classic three-wave calendar: tree pollen Feb–May, grass Apr–Jul, then ragweed Aug–Oct. The two worst stretches are the spring tree peak and the late-summer ragweed peak. Currently, grass pollen is what's driving counts this month.

What's in the air in McChord AFB right now?

Right now grass pollen leads in McChord AFB at a Low (2/5) level. The species actually in the air today: Pine, Oak, and Grasses. On a quiet live day, McChord AFB's seasonal calendar fills in what's typically airborne this time of year.

Is tree or grass pollen higher in McChord AFB in spring?

In spring, tree pollen leads in McChord AFB — trees pollinate Feb–May, ahead of grass (Apr–Jul). The handoff is the tail of the tree window: tree counts taper as grass climbs, so an early-spring flare is more likely tree pollen and a late-spring one more likely grass.

What makes McChord AFB's pollen season distinctive?

McChord AFB sits in the mild, wet Pacific Northwest zone, which means a mild, wet pattern in which a long grass season is usually the bigger problem than the early tree burst, and ragweed stays light. That shapes when symptoms hit and which allergen to watch.

How do I reduce pollen exposure in McChord AFB?

Through McChord AFB's peak windows (tree Feb–May, grass Apr–Jul, ragweed Aug–Oct), keep windows shut and run AC on recirculate; counts run highest on dry, warm, windy mornings, so push outdoor activity to late afternoon or just after rain, which clears pollen from the air. A HEPA purifier indoors, a saline rinse after being outside, showering before bed, and starting antihistamines a week or two before your worst local window all measurably cut symptoms.

What pollen index counts as high?

Pollen is reported on a categorical scale — None, Low, Moderate, High, and Very High. "High" and above means most allergy sufferers notice symptoms even with brief outdoor exposure, and sensitized people should limit time outside and pre-medicate. "Low" to "Moderate" usually only affects highly sensitive individuals.