San Diego has earned a dubious distinction: it's now the second-worst city in America for pollen allergies, trailing only Boise, Idaho, according to the 2026 Allergy Capitals report from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

For East County residents — many of whom spend time outdoors in Santee, Lakeside, Alpine, and the surrounding foothills — the ranking tracks with what allergy sufferers have been experiencing firsthand. Longer allergy seasons, more intense pollen loads, and year-round exposure have become the new normal.

"The three conditions related to climate change — atmospheric rivers, warmer temperatures and drought — have actually made a big difference in terms of our pollen seasons and how they've gotten worse for our patients," said Christine James, an assistant professor of medicine at UC San Diego, in an interview with NBC 7.

Allergy season in San Diego started as early as December and January this year with tree pollen, and relief from that wave isn't expected until late April. Grass pollen follows in late spring through summer, and weed pollen hits in August — meaning sufferers face a near-continuous cycle almost without break.

For those looking to manage symptoms, the AAFA recommends checking daily pollen counts before heading outside, wearing sunglasses to protect the eyes, showering after outdoor activities to remove pollen from hair and skin, and keeping windows closed on high-count days. Local pharmacies in Santee stock over-the-counter antihistamines, and UC San Diego Health has allergy clinics available for those with more severe symptoms. The full 2026 Allergy Capitals report is available at aafa.org.