South Carolina’s pollen season kicked off early this March 2026, with extremely high tree pollen levels blanketing areas like Columbia, driven by warm winds and trees such as pine, elm, and juniper. Counts hit peaks unseen earlier this year, coating cars and tables in yellow dust, and are forecast very high for trees over the next 15 days per The Weather Channel, while grass remains low.
Peak Timing
Season typically runs mid-February to June, peaking mid-March, but climate change has extended it by 34 days since 1970 in Columbia. Expect intense symptoms this weekend from 10 a.m.–4 p.m..
Common Symptoms
Allergens trigger runny/stuffy nose, sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, coughing, congestion, postnasal drip, headaches, scratchy throat, ear issues, hives, or worsened asthma. Rarer signs like wheezing warrant medical checks.
Relief Tips
Keep windows shut mornings/afternoons; shower and change after outdoors; run AC/HEPA filters; use OTC meds like Claritin, Allegra, or saline sprays. Limit exposure during wind/rain lulls.
