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Thunderstorm asthma season approaches

By Zoe McMaugh

Sep 2, 2026

Thunderstorm asthma season could be dangerous for people with asthma. Photo by catinsyrup

As spring settles in, health authorities are urging residents to prepare for asthma season, with experts warning that high pollen levels and thunderstorms can create dangerous conditions for people with asthma and hay fever.

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NSW Health says the period from October to December carries an increased risk of ‘thunderstorm asthma’, a phenomenon that occurs when high pollen levels combine with specific thunderstorm conditions.

The weather can cause pollen grains to break into tiny particles that are easily inhaled deep into the lungs, triggering asthma symptoms such as wheezing, chest tightness, coughing and shortness of breath.

While people with diagnosed asthma are most at risk, NSW Health warns that thunderstorm asthma can also affect those who have never previously been diagnosed with the condition, particularly people who suffer from hay fever during spring.

Authorities are encouraging residents to follow their asthma action plans, take prescribed preventer medications and keep reliever puffers nearby.

NSW Ambulance and hospital emergency departments are prepared for an increase in breathing-related emergencies during high-risk periods.

For more information on thunderstorm asthma and how it can affect you, go to asthma.org.au/triggers/thunderstorm-asthma/.