Increased pollen levels in the Southeastern US are causing more allergy issues. Trees pollinated by wind produce vast amounts of lightweight pollen to compensate for the inefficiency of wind dispersal. Climate change is exacerbating the problem; warmer temperatures and higher CO2 levels lengthen pollen seasons and increase pollen production. More frequent and intense windstorms further worsen the situation by spreading pollen farther and breaking it into smaller, lung-penetrating particles, creating a "perfect pollen storm."

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.