advertisement
27 November 2023
When you think of Arizona’s arid desert landscape and hot climate, allergies might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, contrary to popular belief, Arizona experiences its fair share of allergy woes, boasting one of the highest pollen counts in the nation during the fall season.
Arizona has long been misconstrued as an allergy-free haven, mainly due to its perpetually warm weather. Paradoxically, this very climate is a breeding ground for allergens. Here’s why:
In the metropolitan Phoenix area, allergy season typically strikes in spring and fall. The onset can be as early as January and lingers until late November, depending on the pollen that triggers your allergies. Thanks to Arizona’s diverse flora and varied weather conditions, there’s always something afloat in the Phoenix air that can set off allergies. Some seasons, however, prove more challenging than others due to the specific pollen types and atmospheric conditions.
For allergy sufferers in Phoenix, the period between February and June can be particularly trying. Spring brings high pollen counts and windy weather, exacerbating the problem. During this time, pollen from ash, mesquite, mulberry, cottonwood, oak, and olive trees floods the air.
In the fall, typically from September through late November, another surge in pollen occurs. Ragweed is the primary culprit, although Russian thistle and grass allergens also appear.
Summer tends to be less severe, with remnants of grass and weed allergens from the spring. Thankfully, winter provides a respite from allergies in Arizona.
Arizona, with its year-round pollen-producing flora, often ranks as an allergy hotspot in the United States. However, when evaluated against other cities in the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America’s Allergy Capitals Report, the Tucson and Phoenix metropolitan areas secure middle-of-the-road positions.
On the list that assesses cities based on pollen scores, medication use, and the availability of allergy specialists, Phoenix occupies the 60th spot, while Tucson holds the 40th position. Despite being allergy-prone, Arizona’s major cities don’t top the charts in allergy severity.
In the realm of allergies, Arizona distinguishes itself from other regions. While much of the country revels in low pollen counts, the Grand Canyon State stands out with its consistently elevated levels, especially during the fall season. According to pollen.com, over 80% of the country enjoys low pollen status. At the same time, Arizona persists as an exception, residing in the top 16% of areas with higher pollen concentrations.
advertisement
Arizona might be known for its sun-soaked deserts and dramatic red rock formations, but the Grand Canyon State also offers incredible water adventures for locals and visitors alike. From lazy tubing down rivers to kayaking through canyons, there’s no shortage of aquatic fun to cool off under the Arizona sun. advertisement 1. Tubing the Salt River No Arizona summer is complete without a float down the Salt River in Mesa. This laid-back, family-friendly activity lets you relax as you drift through stunning desert scenery while spotting wild horses along the banks. Bring sunscreen, water shoes, and a waterproof speaker for
The Salt River wild horses are one of Arizona’s most beloved symbols of freedom, beauty, and resilience. These majestic animals roam the lower Salt River in the Tonto National Forest, an area synonymous with the wild, untamed spirit of the American West. But once again, their very existence is under threat. advertisement A Fight for Survival In 2015, when the Salt River wild horses faced possible removal, Arizonans came together in a historic show of unity. The outpouring of public support led to the passage of the Salt River Horse Act in 2016, protecting the herd from unnecessary removal and
Arizona comes alive in November with festivals, art shows, and outdoor events celebrating the best of culture, cuisine, and creativity. From Día de los Muertos celebrations in downtown Phoenix to the glow of floating lanterns in Tempe, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this fall. advertisement Mikiztli Día de los Muertos Phoenix Festival Celebrate the vibrant traditions of Día de los Muertos at Mikiztli, a family-friendly event honoring Indigenous roots and community remembrance. Enjoy mariachi performances, ballet folklórico, face painting, local art, and food trucks. The evening concludes with a lively sunset procession led by Las Flacas, towering 8-foot skeleton
Long before the Valley of the Sun became the desert city we know today, this region was a hub of dynamic earth processes that left behind the strange formations that make up the Papago Mountain. advertisement Ancient Origins Some of Arizona’s oldest geological features, such as the mountains around Sedona and Tucson, date back approximately 2.7 billion years. In comparison, the Phoenix area is geologically young, at 15 to 30 million years old. This makes it one of the newest regions in the state. Notably, much of Arizona’s ancient rock has been uplifted and carried far from its origin. Some
