BURSTVictoria has been ranked the worst place to live in Canada for people with tree-pollen allergies, as a new report warns of a worsening allergy season across the West Coast.
According to Aerobiology Research Laboratories, the city is experiencing a surge in highly allergenic tree pollen, including birch and oak, which are now emerging in significant amounts. The findings place Victoria at the top of a national ranking, followed closely by Vancouver.
The Ottawa-based research organization says the West Coast’s mild climate has triggered an earlier and longer pollen season compared to other parts of Canada, with elevated levels recorded as early as January.
“The warmer West Coast climate is accelerating the release of highly allergenic pollen types such as birch and oak,” said Daniel Coates, director of aerobiology research.
He noted that while species such as cedar, alder, elm and poplar have already been active for months, the arrival of birch and oak marks the most difficult period for allergy sufferers.
The report highlights several factors behind Victoria’s ranking, including long pollen seasons, high peak intensity and overlapping cycles of different allergenic plants. Together, these conditions create what researchers describe as a ‘perfect storm’ for residents sensitive to tree pollen.
Aerobiology Research Laboratories, which operates Canada’s only real-time pollen and outdoor mould monitoring network, analyzed decades of data to produce its 2026 ranking. The organization tracks season length, number of high-pollen days and regional climate patterns.
Officials warn that a sharp increase in pollen levels is expected in the coming weeks, potentially worsening symptoms such as sneezing, congestion and itchy eyes for allergy sufferers.
Researchers say the findings underscore the importance of monitoring local pollen forecasts, particularly in regions like Victoria where conditions can shift quickly and remain elevated for extended periods.