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Why allergies over the next few months do not look overly significant for West Texas

While the eastern United States is gearing up for a particularly bad allergy season, West Texas looks to have its normal allergy concerns.
Credit: FOX61

SAN ANGELO, Texas — Accuweather recently released its allergy forecast over the next few months. It caught the attention of many people by saying that many Americans will be suffering with a "brutal allergy season". And this is true, for 193 million people that live on the eastern half of the country. But what about West Texas? 

The arrival of spring is just a few weeks away, and many are looking forward to getting outdoors and enjoying the building warmth. But, for millions of Americans, the season of rebirth also brings a return of sneezing, sniffles, coughing and itchy eyes due to seasonal allergies.

Here, no significant allergy season is expected. Spring pollen looks to be just about the normal amount in West Texas. Now, that isn't the greatest news considering West Texas is one of the worst places for allergy sufferers because of high winds and fluctuating temperatures. But, it does mean that this year does not look to stand out in any way from any other years. 

Credit: AccuWeather

Why is this? Well, in order to predict allergies and pollen, we must look at what is expected in terms of future weather conditions.

For the next three months, West Texas is predicted to be mainly above normal in terms of temperature. This is actually a favorable sign when it comes to increased allergies. Above average conditions means plants and trees will recover quicker from the dormant winter season and tree pollen will begin sooner than normal.

Credit: Climate Prediction Center

However, West Texas has a greater probability over the next three months to see below average precipitation. This means that many warm and dry days are likely through the spring. Drier conditions are unfavorable for tree pollen, and will create less allergies. 

Credit: Climate Prediction Center

This all aligns for a near-average spring allergy season ahead for West Texas. Less moisture means there will be less pollen in the air, but dry and warm conditions are also more favorable for mold growth. When this happens, the West Texas wind is likely to blow it into the air. Pollen sufferers may be in luck over the next few months, but mold sufferers may want to stock up on the extra tissues. 


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