Again people lined the roads, shooting still pictures and videos to record the event. Dozens gathered at Mechanicsburg High School, where Mayor Jack Ritter gave wagonmaster Wayne Krug the key to the city while youngsters focused on petting the horses and mules. The event was marred by a light rain that turned into a downpour. Summer thunderstorms have been a blessing for people suffering from grass pollen allergies. June's rain kept grass pollen levels at moderate levels, says Tim Craig, associate professor of pediatrics at Penn State's Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.
Rain keeps grass pollen grounded.
He estimates grass pollen levels will remain moderate until the end of its season in late July. Frequent thunderstorms are not good news for all allergy sufferers. Rain helps the growth of spore-producing mold, which is particularly menacing to those with asthma. The recent showers and high humidity have helped mold thrive. Craig says people with pollen allergies often suffer from mold allergies.