As the worst of winter heads into the rearview mirror, the first signs of the spring growing season are emerging, albeit later than is typical.
Data recently released by the USA National Phenology Network shows that most communities across the state are seeing the first signs of growth, but vegetation is weeks behind schedule.
An Arctic blast of cold air, which included an ice storm and a snowstorm in January, likely halted any type of growth that the region has become accustomed to seeing during the second half of the winter season.
With glimpses of warmer air in place following the record cold, the spring progression has begun for around half the state.
Data stems from observations of lilacs and honeysuckles, which are usually among the earliest indicators that the leaf-out process is underway.
According to phenology network, the Charleston-area is around 9 days later than average for growth, while Myrtle Beach is around two weeks behind schedule.
Communities around Florence, Rock Hill and Greenville have yet to see activity, but once the first signs appear, they too will likely be behind average.
Most of this year's ahead-of-average activity is along the Gulf Coast’s Interstate 10 corridor and points southward, which were able to see enough warm weather to begin the spring process before January’s record cold.
When temperatures drop below freezing after vulnerable growth has already begun, damage can result, ranging from cosmetic issues to the complete loss of flowers.
Gardening experts say for plants that lose flowers to the weather, they will not produce buds for a second time during a season.
Due to South Carolina's climate, communities that see early leaf production usually experience a simultaneous increase in pollen levels, with certain species of trees being the top allergens.
At last report, medium to high levels of pollen were being observed statewide, with juniper and elm among the top pollen producers.
With an extensive drought across the state, not only can dry conditions push back growth timeline for some plants, but it can also make pollen particles more concentrated.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, dry soils and a lack of rainfall can make pollen and other particulates more concentrated, leading to potential irritation and asthma flare-ups.
The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America estimates that at least 100 million Americans suffer from some type of allergy. With pollen seasons becoming longer and, in some cases, more intense.
Health experts say there are steps people can take to limit exposure during peak pollen periods.
Peak pollen hours typically occur from roughly 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and it is advised that those with severe allergies reduce prolonged outdoor activities when possible.
Additionally, showering after spending time outdoors, changing clothes and running a home's air-conditioning system can help reduce pollen impacts.