HEALTH

Earlier blooms and high pollen grip U.S. cities now

PUBLISHED Mar 23, 2026, 5:50 AM ET

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Nashville and other U.S. cities reported earlier spring blooms and elevated pollen levels this week as local stations cited data showing growing seasons have lengthened since 1970 and a recent HouseFresh study ranking cities by allergy severity. Consequences include record or near-record local pollen counts, increased patient symptoms reported by clinics, and health advisories; experts and data sources warn of sustained high pollen in the coming weeks and recommend monitoring counts.

By Yusra M. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Since 1970: many U.S. cities show longer freeze-free growing seasons.
Over recent decades: elevated CO2 and warmer temperatures increased plant growth and pollen production.
Last week: HouseFresh published a study ranking cities and states for allergy severity.
This week: local stations reported early spring blooms, high pollen counts, and windy conditions in several regions.
Immediate aftermath: clinics report increased allergy symptoms and advisories urge monitoring of pollen counts.

News Intelligence

Early blooms and high pollen counts can trigger allergies. If you live in a city with a longer growing season, you may experience more severe symptoms. Keep an eye on local pollen counts and consult your doctor if needed.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 7
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 7
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Longer growing seasons have benefited plants and some agricultural sectors by extending reproduction and pollen production periods, and higher CO2 has supported increased plant growth in many regions.

Who Impacted

People with seasonal allergies — including children, older adults and those with asthma — experienced longer exposure, higher local pollen counts, and more frequent or severe symptoms across multiple U.S. cities.