Melbourne experienced the world's most catastrophic thunderstorm asthma event in November 2016, when 10 people died after developing breathing difficulties.
Pollen warning systems were upgraded following the event, with eight pollen traps monitoring grass pollen levels across Victoria between 1 October to 31 December each year.
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What is thunderstorm asthma?
"It is a phenomenon where a specific type of thunderstorm causes pollen particles to become smaller in size so that they're inhaled by people who are around where that thunderstorm happens," he told SBS News.
2.7 million Australians suffered from asthma in 2021, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Source: AAP / Peter Byrne/PA/Alamy
Flynn noted the event is triggered by an unusual mix of high levels of grass pollen.
Symptoms associated include wheezing, chest tightness, difficulty breathing and a cough.
Who does it affect?
"The high pollen levels dissipate into the evening and night. They don't necessarily hang around for days on end, but pollen counts are available daily."
Asthma Australia CEO Michele Goldman told ABC News that asthma and hay fever suffers can anticipate a "triple whammy" this spring with pollen, thunderstorms and bushfires a concern.
Should you be worried?
Steps to reduce risk include:
- See your GP for an asthma action plan.
- Take preventative medicine up to one month beforehand to control symptoms.
- Have a reliever puffer appropriately available (as discussed with your doctor)
During the event experts advise Australians to turn off evaporative air conditioners, close windows and avoid exposure to any thunderstorms, including wind gusts that precede them.
