If you suffer from allergies in Houston, red eyes, a runny nose, and sneezing are all unfortunate realities of allergy season. Any relief is welcome from the brutal pollen levels. But with rain on the way, the big question is—will it actually help reduce the pollen count?
Before the rain- pollen is released into the air - especially when it’s warm and windy. These particles float around - especially tree oak pollen.
Here is a look at the process:
- Rainfall captures pollen: When it rains - water droplets grab pollen and drag it into the ground.
- Ground-level washout: When rain hits the ground, it washes pollen off surfaces, reducing the amount that can get stirred back into the air when the winds pick up again.
- Temporary air cleansing: After the rain stops - the air is clean - especially when the ground is wet. Lowering the pollen count, even for a short period of time.
- Post-rain effects: After the rain stops, pollen levels may stay low for a few hours or even days.
This means rain is Mother Nature’s way of giving us a break from allergies.