Durham, NC Pollen Levels Today

Durham, NC sits in the humid subtropical Piedmont region, where mild winters, warm springs, and long growing seasons create one of the more challenging allergy climates in the United States.

The season typically begins in late February and runs through October, with distinct waves of pollen driving symptoms.

Tree pollen dominates from March through May, when oak, pine, birch, maple, sweetgum, hickory, and cedar release heavy loads—pine being particularly visible as the yellow film coating cars, though oak is often the more significant allergenic trigger.

As tree pollen tapers in May, grass pollen takes over through early summer, with Bermuda, Timothy, orchard, and fescue grasses peaking from May into July. There is frequently a two- to three-week overlap in May when trees and grasses pollinate simultaneously, intensifying symptoms for many residents.

Weed season follows from August through the first frost, led by ragweed, along with pigweed, lamb's quarters, and plantain.

Beyond pollen, Durham's persistent humidity fuels year-round mold growth, both outdoors in leaf litter and indoors, while dust mites thrive in warm, moist homes. Vehicle-related pollution along the I-40/I-85 corridor can further aggravate symptoms.

Overall, Durham's allergy profile is defined by long, overlapping pollen seasons compounded by high humidity and persistent mold.