January 8, 2026 – North Texans battling runny noses, itchy eyes, and relentless sneezing may have a familiar culprit to blame this time of year: mountain cedar. Often mistaken for a lingering cold or the aftermath of holiday gatherings, mountain cedar allergies typically peak during the winter months, especially from December through February. The tree, also known as Ashe juniper, releases large amounts of pollen that can travel hundreds of miles on windy days, blanketing much of North Texas. Allergy specialists say recent dry conditions and periodic strong winds have helped spread cedar pollen...