Just reading this story might make your nose itch and eyes water.

As we enter the first week of September, pollen levels are set to soar.

Each fall ragweed pollen levels rise across the Southeastern United States.

Interestingly, Alabama has not seen elevated ragweed counts yet, which sets up a situation where the area is likely to experience extremely high ragweed amounts before Labor Day weekend even gets underway.

The current dry, rain-free and very hot days in the forecast will likely set the scene for a big surge in ragweed levels by the end of the week.

A weak Saharan Air Layer over the state which is creating hazy skies is also contributing to area allergies.