Today in Des Moines, Iowa, the atmosphere is abuzz with more than just the vibrant fall colors and cheerful anticipation of weekend plans. While locals enjoy pumpkin patches and caramel apples, a more invisible player lurks in the backdrop - today’s allergy forecast. Grab your tissues and let’s dive into what’s happening in the air around us.

Residents of Des Moines might find themselves in a bit of a nasal conundrum as today’s allergy levels are teetering between moderate and high. Yes, it's that time of year when you can't tell if you’re under the weather or just waging war with the whims of pollen. With the steady transition from muggy summer into crisp autumn air, ragweed remains public enemy number one. Its pollen persists in causing sneezing fits and runny noses around the city, creating what some would call an uninvited sneeze-fest.

Today marks a particularly intriguing day for mold spores, which have found the moist fall weather to their liking. With recent rains softening the ground, molds are thriving in both leaf piles and the more secluded, damp corners of backyards. Those with mold sensitivity should take care when raking leaves or enjoying outdoor walks, as the spores are at a medium level, enough to possibly bring a few sniffles and itchy eyes along for the ride.

For those partial to backyard adventures, a closer look at the trees might not bring instant relief. Though many of the deciduous trees have let go of their pollen-producing days, cedar and juniper are cheekily keeping the allergy game alive. Their pollen, though not as high as it was in the spring, is causing slight annoyance to some residents, forming alliances with ragweed to keep tissue boxes at the ready.

But it’s not all doom and gloom. There’s a cool breeze sweeping through Des Moines today, which is efficiently dispersing some of the pollen and providing a few breaks for allergy sufferers. Taking precautions, such as keeping windows closed and changing air filters, may prove beneficial for those looking to ease allergy symptoms. It’s also a great day to embrace indoor activities - perhaps indulging in a warm cider or pumpkin spice something, while the allergens enjoy their season in the sun.

For tomorrow's outlook, those sensitive to the autumn allergens can expect similar conditions. The occasional rainfall expected might momentarily dampen pollen levels, offering brief reprieves here and there. Until then, keep that antihistamine handy, embrace the indoors just a tad more, and remember that fall in Des Moines, allergies included, is simply part of the seasonal charm.

As the foliage paints the town in hues of orange and red, remember, too, that the beauty of living in Des Moines means seasonal allergies are but a small price to pay. So, whether you face the day nose held high with a pack of tissues or choose to brave it mask-free, may your walks be sneeze-free, and your cider cups full.