Accuweather Mold Count (2024)

FAQs

What causes high mold count outdoors? ›

Mold spores count is highest at night, especially when it's foggy, damp or rainy. Upsetting these mold spores send them into the air, triggering an allergic reaction in people who have an allergy to mold.

Ragweed: Ragweed is a weed that is very common in New York City.

Rising temperatures cause earlier flowering and pollination and longer pollen seasons for species that pollinate in late winter and early spring (cypress, ash, birch). More exposed to pollens, the population develops more allergies.

If mold counts are high, it might be best to stay indoors. Try to keep your yard free of piles of damp and decaying leaves or wood. Check your local mold counts to determine if air quality is safe.

Generally speaking, a concentration of mold spores below 500 sp/m3 is considered normal. A concentration of mold spores above 500 sp/m3 is considered high. Therefore, if your report comes up with high concentrations of mold, it will likely advise you to remediate the problem.

What Months Are NYC Allergy Season? In New York City, you'll want to keep an eye on pollen counts in April, May, and September. These months are when seasonal allergies are typically at their peak. During these months, try limiting your time outdoors or going out in the evening when pollen counts tend to be lower.

Rain can make some allergies worse. This can include allergies to certain pollens, mold, dust, and grass. When rain falls on these allergens, it can break them up into smaller bits. This leads to easier spreading and can result in worse allergies.

Environmental factors play an important role in allergy symptoms. Increased pollution, air quality changes and outdoor allergens such as pollen and mold spores can create a perfect storm for heightened allergic responses. Seasonal variations. Allergy seasons ebb and flow throughout the year.

New York allergy season will typically start sometime in late February/early March and end in late October. The cold winters provide a welcome relief from pollen allergies, but indoor allergies should still be considered.

Why is ragweed so bad this year? ›

Ragweed plants are releasing pollen for longer periods during the year and the plants are releasing higher pollen amounts. Climate change is also causing increased carbon dioxide gas in the air, which stimulates ragweed plants to make more pollen.

Spring and fall are generally the worst months for allergies, as tree, grass, and weed pollens are prevalent. Winter and late summer or early fall can offer some relief, with reduced levels of certain allergens. Allergens vary by state and are influenced by climate, regional flora, and environmental conditions.

That's because as the climate has warmed, there are fewer days with hard freezes. That gives pollen producers, grasses and weeds a longer period of time to thrive (and make your eyes water). The 2024 season has kicked off especially early, experts say.

In humid, damp climates—like Dayton's—mold can thrive as a result. Your soffits aren't exposed to direct sunlight and can attract mold growth. Dense bushes bordering your home create just what mold needs to thrive—dark, wet spaces. Ivy and other vines on your siding allow water to penetrate it and foster mold growth.

Excessive moisture from overwatering, heavy rainfall, or poor drainage. High humidity and warm temperatures. Compacted soil or a buildup of thatch. Improper mowing practices, such as cutting grass too short.

Outdoor molds often cause allergy symptoms in summer and fall. But they may be year-round in warmer, humid climates. Indoor molds may cause allergy symptoms year-round. Rarely, some people can have a more serious illness called allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis.

Hot, humid climates can contain all the factors needed for mold growth. The humid moisture in the air is one of the biggest contributors to mold.