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
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
Arizona’s craft beer scene is flourishing, with major cities offering a diverse array of brewpubs that cater to every palate. Here’s a guide to some of the best brewpubs in Phoenix, Tucson, Flagstaff, and Tempe. advertisement Phoenix Wren House Brewing Company: Located at 2125 N 24th St, this brewery is renowned for its award-winning beers. For instance, the Spellbinder IPA is crafted with Arizona-grown Sonoran white wheat and a blend of Cascade, Citra, and Mosaic hops. Hop Culture Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co.: Situated at 201 E Roosevelt St, this brewery emphasizes local ingredients. It offers unique brews that reflect the
The Grand Canyon, one of the most iconic natural wonders in the world, is a testament to the immense power of time and geology. It spans over 277 miles, reaching depths of more than a mile, and offers visitors a stunning view of layered rock formations that tell the story of Earth’s geological history. But how did this awe-inspiring landscape come to be? The formation of the Grand Canyon is the result of millions of years of geological processes, combining erosion, volcanic activity, and the slow movement of tectonic plates. advertisement The Ancient Foundations The Grand Canyon’s story began long
Thinking about exploring Arizona caves? You’re in luck if you’re a spelunker! Several cave systems in Arizona are well-known and accessible to the public, offering a mix of guided tours and self-exploration: Kartchner Caverns – Famous for its preserved formations and extensive guided tours, Kartchner is a must-see for any visitor. Learn More » Peppersauce Cave – A favorite for more adventurous explorers, Peppersauce allows visitors to experience a raw and natural cave environment. Learn More » Colossal Cave – Located near Tucson, this cave provides both standard and advanced tours for those seeking a challenge. Learn More » Grand
