Pollen, Air Quality, and Soil Temperature Forecast

Rowan County Weather — Forecast Desk

Pollen Outlook

Pollen levels today are in the moderate range, with ragweed remaining the dominant allergen this time of year. Grass pollen is also still present in smaller amounts. Showers and periods of heavier rainfall will help suppress pollen counts through the weekend. However, in between rain events, counts may briefly climb again.

Steve Monday on pollen conditions:

“Rain is nature’s best air filter — it clears pollen quickly. The tradeoff is when the sun breaks out between showers, ragweed can spike again, so those sensitive may still notice symptoms.”

Air Quality

Air quality is expected to remain Good to Moderate today. Cloud cover and wet conditions are holding ozone levels down. Heavier rain pockets may briefly stir particulates, but no widespread air quality concerns are expected.

Looking ahead, humid and stagnant air early next week may bring occasional localized moderate readings, especially if tropical moisture lingers over the region.

Steve Monday on air quality:

“Even with all the unsettled weather, air quality remains in a safe zone. Anyone with respiratory concerns should still be mindful of short-lived changes between showers.”

Soil Temperatures

Soil temperatures across Rowan County are currently averaging 72–74°F at the 4-inch depth. With cooler high temperatures arriving early next week, soil readings are expected to gradually ease back into the upper 60s by midweek.

This remains favorable for fall planting. However, frequent rainfall will leave soils saturated at times, limiting opportunities for field work and gardening until later in the week.

Steve Monday on soil conditions:

“The wet pattern will slow field access, but once soils can drain a bit, we’ll still be in a great window for fall planting with temperatures holding in the 60s.”

Key Takeaways

• Pollen: Moderate, ragweed remains the main allergen. Rain provides relief.

• Air Quality: Good to Moderate, generally safe.

• Soil Temperatures: 72–74°F now, trending into the upper 60s by midweek. Favorable for fall planting, but soggy soils may delay work.