Seasonal Allergies Worsening as Pollen Levels Double Across Canada

Canadian researchers say pollen levels across the country have doubled, intensifying seasonal allergies. The culprit: climate change.

“Pollen loves warm weather,” said Daniel Coates, director of Aerobiology Research Laboratories. His lab’s monitoring shows that longer warm periods lead to more pollen in the air.

Unpredictable weather is also a factor. This spring’s cooler temperatures caused different tree species-like cedars, maples, birch, oak, and poplar-to release pollen at the same time, creating a sudden, intense allergy season.

Kevin Sproule, an Edmonton arborist, said his family is experiencing worse allergy symptoms this year due to an “explosion of pollen.”

Aerobiology’s Dawn Jurgens added that “botanical sexism” worsens the problem. Cities tend to plant male trees to avoid fruiting debris, but male trees release more pollen. Urban “heat-island effects” also trap heat, further boosting pollen counts.

For allergy sufferers, experts advise limiting outdoor activities and keeping windows closed during high-pollen days.