Pollen Season Will Be Longer and Hit Harder in These States: How Homeowners Should Prepare

by Anna Baluch

Even though fall is right around the corner, allergy season is far from over.

According to AccuWeather’s 2026 fall allergy forecast, we can expect elevated levels of weed pollen lingering well into October across much of the country.

The Southeast and southern Rockies are expected to see the highest weed pollen levels, with cities including Raleigh, NC; Nashville, TN; Atlanta; Denver; and Albuquerque, NM, in the hot zone.

While grass pollen will likely generally decline in August and early September, warm, moist conditions could keep levels high in parts of the East and Midwest, including in and around New York City, Philadelphia, Detroit, and Chicago.

The good news is there are steps you can take to prepare your home for pollen season, so you and your family can enjoy all that fall has to offer.

“A longer and more intense pollen season will require homeowners to pay more attention to their indoor air quality. Once pollen enters the home, it can continue circulating through the HVAC system, especially if the filtration system is poor,” explains Brian White, commercial president at Accurate Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing in Lancaster, OH.

AccuWeather's pollen forecast maps — If grass is your kryptonite, then you might what to start prepping now if you live in the Upper East. (Accuweather )

Weed pollen map from Accuweather — The 2026 pollen season is going to hit hard. (Accuweather)

How to allergy-proof your home

“The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has found that indoor air is two to five times more polluted than outdoor air—and gets worse once the heat is on. Your home is the one place you can actually control. Now's the time to do it,” says Dr. Clifford W. Bassett, founder of Allergy and Asthma Care of New York, now part of Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City.

These tips can help you create a healthier home environment that keeps pollen at bay and your loved ones healthy.

Don’t let pollen in

Close the windows. Turn on the air conditioning. Shower and change your clothes as soon as you come home.

“And don't line-dry laundry outside on high-count days,” adds Dr. Bassett.

Take advantage of HEPA filters

Install HEPA filters that are compatible with your HVAC equipment.

“These filters are specifically designed to capture any bad particles in the air. They can last anywhere between six to 12 months,” says White.

Make sure you check your filters regularly and replace them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

“A dirty filter can restrict airflow, cause more pollen to linger in the air, and make the HVAC system work harder than it needs to,” White explains.

Invest in an air purifier

If you’re looking for extra protection from pollen, an air purifier is worthwhile.

“A whole-house air purifier works with the HVAC system to filter air throughout the house rather than treating just one room,” says White.

Dr. Bassett recommends portable HEPA purifiers in the bedrooms as they use high-efficiency filters to remove tiny particles, including pollen.

“Make sure the HEPA purifiers have the Asthma & Allergy Certified® mark, which means they’ve been independently tested for quality,” Dr. Bassett explains.

Maintain your ductwork

Leaky ducts can pull dust, pollen, and other particles from attics, crawl spaces, and other areas into the HVAC system, where they can then be circulated throughout the home.

That’s why it’s a good idea to have your ductwork inspected and HVAC system professionally maintained on a regular basis.

Be mindful of your landscaping

Certain landscaping strategies can keep pollen counts low indoors and out.

“These include frequent mowing, smart plant choices like hydrangeas and roses, and timely weed removal,” explains Dr. Matt Hershcovitch, double board-certified ENT and sinus specialist and founder of SoCal Breathe Free in Burbank, CA.

If you find that these tips don’t help and you or someone in your household may be reacting to pollen or another substance, see an allergist who may recommend immunotherapy or other treatments.

“An allergist can help you determine what you're actually reacting to. For the right patient, immunotherapy delivers lasting relief that daily medications simply don't,” says Dr. Bassett.

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