Victoria residents who find themselves reaching for tissues each spring aren’t imagining it.
A new report from Aerobiology Research Laboratories has ranked Victoria among the top five most challenging cities in Canada for seasonal allergies in 2026.
The report looks at pollen levels across the country, analyzing factors like season length, peak intensity and how often different pollen types overlap throughout the year.
Victoria came in alongside several Ontario cities, including Windsor, Barrie, Kingston and Hamilton, as one of the most difficult places to live with seasonal allergies.
Researchers say these rankings are driven by a combination of long pollen seasons and high concentrations of airborne allergens.
That includes pollen from trees, grasses and weeds, which can trigger symptoms like congestion, sneezing, itchy eyes and coughing.
The report notes that allergy seasons across Canada are becoming longer and more intense.
Warmer temperatures are playing a big role, contributing to earlier starts to pollen season, longer growing periods and increased pollen production.
According to the report, urban factors like air pollution can also make symptoms worse by increasing how allergens interact with the respiratory system
Tree pollen is the biggest culprit in spring, typically peaking between late March and June.
Common allergy-triggering trees in Canada include birch, alder, oak, maple and cedar, which have pollen that can travel long distances through the air.
Later in the year, grass pollen and weed pollen take over, extending allergy season well into summer and early fall.
Experts recommend a few simple steps to reduce exposure:
check daily pollen forecasts before heading outside
limit outdoor activity during high pollen days
shower and change clothes after being outdoors
keep windows closed during peak periods
clean regularly to reduce indoor allergensPollen forecasts are available through websites such as The Weather Network.
source: Victoria Buzz
