Greenery in the Franklin Mountains leads to an earlier than normal allergy season

EL PASO, Texas -- The Franklin Mountains, a key landmark in El Paso, are greener than ever due to recent rains. Many locals have said they've never seen them this green in their life. While some are enjoying the bright new colors the mountains have, others are suffering from allergy problems earlier than normal.

Dr. Luis Antonio Gonzalez, an allergist, said that he has seen an increase in the amount of patients with allergy issues so far this year, and he added that they've been coming in to see him earlier than normal. He says early pollination of plants is to blame.

Recent rains have allowed weeds and native plants alike to grow all over the region, with many in vacant or unmaintained lots. Bernie Sargent, who is president of the Keystone Heritage Park, said those empty lots are "big offenders" for plants that are causing allergy problems.

Gonzalez did mention that face masks can actually help fight off allergens, just like they do with Covid-19. The mask acts as a barrier where pollen will have a harder time to make it up into your nose. The doctor says masks are working double duty this allergy season.