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Allergy season begins in Seattle as tree pollen ramps up

Very high levels of tree pollen were reported in greater Seattle area this week.

Have you been doing any sniffing and sneezing lately? Turns out it might not be a cold but allergies. 

Tree pollen is very high with the main contributors being cedar, juniper, alder, hazelnut and elm trees. 

Below is the pollen count from the Northwest Asthma and Allergy Center taken Thursday afternoon:

Credit: Northwest Asthma & Allergy Center

Allergists at the Northwest Asthma and Allergy Center use what's called a Rotorod that spins around and takes a daily sample of the pollen in the air. Click here for the daily pollen count.

RELATED: Allergy season affects pets too

It seems a bit early to be talking about pollen count, but February is actually the beginning of tree pollen season in the greater Seattle area. The peak of tree pollen season doesn’t arrive until later in March. Grass pollen season begins in April and weeds season not until May.

Credit: Northwest Asthma & Allergy Center

We love the dry weather and warmer temperatures this time of year, but it also brings out the allergy symptoms. Keep in mind that rain in the forecast this weekend will drop the levels of pollen, bringing at least a little relief.

RELATED: Western Washington forecast

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