Pollen Count
Low2
Pollen Count
Pollen Scale
Current Levels
-
Mold
5
Moderate
-
Tree
2
Low
-
Grass
2
Low
-
Weed
2
Low
Pollen in Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley are known for having some of the most challenging seasonal allergy conditions in the Southeast. Chattanooga is frequently ranked among the more challenging cities for seasonal allergies in the United States as well. The region's mild climate, abundant tree canopy, long growing seasons, and high humidity contribute to significant pollen exposure throughout much of the year.
Common allergens in the Chattanooga area include:
• Tree pollens such as oak, hickory, maple, cedar, and mulberry
• Grass pollens including Bermuda grass and Timothy grass
• Weed pollens such as ragweed
• Mold spores, which thrive in the region's humid environment
See more about this in our FAQs section.
Pollen levels can vary by season, weather conditions, and location, but many residents experience allergy symptoms from late winter through fall. Because multiple allergen seasons often overlap, allergy sufferers in the Tennessee Valley may experience symptoms for much of the year.
Common symptoms of pollen allergies include:
• Sneezing
• Nasal congestion
• Runny nose
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Postnasal drip
• Coughing
• Sinus pressure
• Asthma flare-ups
Evaluation by a board-certified allergist can help identify specific allergy triggers and develop a personalized treatment plan to help manage symptoms year-round.
What is a pollen count?
A pollen count measures the amount of pollen in the air over a specific period of time. Similarly, a mold count measures the number of mold spores present in the air. These measurements help allergy sufferers understand current outdoor allergen levels and their potential impact on symptoms.
In general, the higher the pollen or mold count, the greater the likelihood that people with seasonal allergies may experience symptoms.
Pollen and mold levels can vary daily based on factors such as weather conditions, temperature, rainfall, humidity, and wind.
For residents of Chattanooga and the Tennessee Valley, the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Air Pollution Control Bureau is a trusted source for local pollen and mold count information and where our daily report originates.
Monitoring pollen and mold counts can help allergy sufferers better manage symptoms and plan outdoor activities during peak allergy seasons.
How are pollen counts measured?
Pollen counts are measured by collecting airborne pollen particles and calculating the number of pollen grains present in one cubic meter of air. These measurements help determine whether pollen levels are low, moderate, high, or very high on a given day.
Specialized air-sampling devices are placed in outdoor locations to collect pollen and mold spores from the atmosphere. The samples are then analyzed under a microscope to identify the types and concentrations of allergens present.
Because different plants release pollen at different times of the year, pollen counts may include:
• Tree pollen
• Grass pollen
• Weed pollen
• Mold spores
Pollen levels can change daily based on weather conditions, including temperature, rainfall, humidity, and wind.
People with seasonal allergies, allergic rhinitis (hay fever), or allergic asthma are often more likely to experience symptoms when pollen counts are elevated. Monitoring local pollen counts can help patients plan outdoor activities and better manage allergy symptoms.
What should you do when pollen counts are high?
When pollen counts are high or very high, limiting exposure to outdoor allergens can help reduce allergy symptoms and prevent asthma flare-ups.
If you have seasonal allergies, consider the following tips:
• Keep windows closed in your home and vehicle
• Use air conditioning when possible
• Wear sunglasses and a hat when spending time outdoors
• Wash your hands and face after being outside
• Shower and change clothes after outdoor activities
• Wipe down pets that spend time outdoors before they come inside
• Avoid outdoor activities during peak pollen times, especially on dry, windy days
• Take allergy medications as directed by your physician
Common symptoms associated with high pollen levels include:
• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Nasal congestion
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Postnasal drip
• Coughing
• Asthma symptoms
If allergy symptoms continue despite avoidance measures and medication, evaluation by a board-certified allergist may help identify your specific triggers and determine whether treatments such as immunotherapy (allergy shots) may be appropriate.
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