What is thunderstorm asthma?
Thunderstorm asthma refers to episodes of asthma symptoms which occur when high pollen levels are combined with thunderstorm activity.
Thunderstorm asthma is uncommon and requires very specific weather conditions to occur.
If the conditions necessary for thunderstorm asthma occur near a highly populated area it is possible for many people to be affected by asthma suddenly and at the same time.
If prone to asthma events, it is important that during these events you:
- stay indoors where possible
- take appropriate preventer medications as prescribed
- ensure reliever medication is immediately available at all times
- More information and advice on how to decrease your risk is available at: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/factsheets/Pages/thunderstorm-asthma.aspx
How we can help:
The Public Health Unit monitor airborne grass pollen counts and weather forecasts during the spring thunderstorm season to assess days at higher risk of a thunderstorm triggered asthma events occurring in the district and issue alerts to the community.
For more information about Thunderstorm Asthma go to health.nsw.gov.au/thunderstorm-asthma
You can also monitor thunderstorm activity in your region via the Bureau of Meteorology website