Iowa, United States

Des Moines, IA Pollen Count Today

View the current allergy index, primary allergen, tree, grass, and weed pollen levels, plus the 5-day pollen forecast for Des Moines.

Today's pollen count in Des Moines

Today in Des Moines, Iowa, the forecasted pollen level is moderate with an allergy index of 3. The primary allergen is Grasses. Use the forecast below to see whether conditions are likely to rise, ease, or stay steady over the next few days.

AllergyAva shows forecasted pollen levels and allergy risk estimates for Des Moines. Actual exposure can vary by neighborhood, weather, and time outdoors.

Current level
Moderate
Allergy index
3
Main allergen
Grasses

Pollen Level

Moderate Risk
3

Pollen Index

Primary Allergen

Grasses

Consider taking antihistamines before heading outside. Keep windows closed.

72°

Temp

55%

Humidity

8

Wind mph

Source: Includes pollen data from Google

Updated May 13, 2026 at 9:25 AM ET.

Check pollen in another city or ZIP code

5-Day Pollen Forecast

Best day this week

Sun - Very Low

Worst day this week

Fri - Moderate

Today
84°/61°
3
Moderate
Tree1
Grass3
Weed0
Tomorrow
84°/61°
3
Moderate
Tree1
Grass3
Weed0
Fri
84°/61°
3
Moderate
Tree1
Grass3
Weed0
Sat
81°/59°
2
Low
Tree1
Grass2
Weed0
Sun
78°/57°
1
Very Low
Tree1
Grass1
Weed0
None
Very Low
Low
Moderate
High
Very High

Allergen Breakdown

Grasses
Moderate
Maple
Out of seasonVery Low
Ash
Out of seasonVery Low
Oak
Very Low
Pine
None

Pollen & Allergy Guide for Des Moines, IA

Des Moines, Iowa residents can experience significant pollen exposure throughout the year. Tree pollen typically peaks during spring months, while grass pollen dominates in summer. Fall brings elevated ragweed levels, which is one of the most common allergens in the region.

When Is Allergy Season in Des Moines?

Allergy season in Des Moines generally begins in early spring as trees start releasing pollen. The most intense period varies by allergen type. Monitoring daily pollen counts with Allergy Ava helps you plan ahead and manage symptoms proactively.

Tips for Managing Allergies in Des Moines

Track your daily pollen exposure, consult with a local allergist for personalized treatment, and consider starting preventive medications 2-4 weeks before your peak allergy season. Indoor air quality management with HEPA filters can also make a significant difference.

Des Moines allergy season calendar

Tree pollen

In season now

Spring

Often drives early-season symptoms

Grass pollen

In season now

Late spring to summer

Can rise around lawns, parks, and open areas

Ragweed/weed pollen

Late summer to fall

Major fall allergy trigger

Mold spores

Varies

Often affected by moisture and decaying leaves

Common pollen triggers around Des Moines

TriggerTypical seasonWhat to know
Tree pollenSpringOften drives early-season symptoms
Grass pollenLate spring to summerCan rise around lawns, parks, and open areas
Ragweed/weed pollenLate summer to fallMajor fall allergy trigger
Mold sporesVariesOften affected by moisture and decaying leaves

Des Moines pollen forecast in central Iowa

Des Moines allergy conditions are shaped by central Iowa tree bloom cycles, seasonal grasses, and fall weeds that can create multiple periods of elevated allergen pressure. People searching for a Des Moines pollen forecast often want local detail before commuting, work, or outdoor activity.

Because wind and weather can quickly change allergen exposure across the metro, daily local forecasting helps Des Moines residents follow pollen conditions more accurately.

Frequently asked questions about pollen in Des Moines

What is the pollen count in Des Moines today?

Today in Des Moines, Iowa, the pollen level is moderate with an allergy index of 3. The main allergen to watch is Grasses.

When is allergy season in Des Moines, Iowa?

Allergy season in Des Moines, Iowa can vary by allergen and weather conditions. Tree pollen often rises in spring, grass pollen becomes more active in late spring and summer, and weed pollen can remain elevated later in the year depending on local climate and vegetation.

How often should I check the pollen forecast in Des Moines?

If you have seasonal allergies in Des Moines, it is helpful to check the pollen forecast daily during peak allergy periods. Shifts in wind, rainfall, temperature, and humidity can all change local pollen exposure from one day to the next.

What pollen types affect people in Des Moines, Iowa?

Des Moines residents may be affected by tree pollen, grass pollen, and weed pollen during different parts of the year. The strongest trigger depends on the season, nearby vegetation, and current weather conditions.