02 November 2026
Thunderstorm asthma season is here, making now an important time for general practices to identify patients who may be at risk and support them to prepare.
This year also marks 10 years since Melbourne’s epidemic thunderstorm asthma event on 21 November 2016, when thousands of people experienced breathing difficulties over a short period and 10 people died. The anniversary is an important reminder of the role preparation and awareness can play during thunderstorm asthma season.
On this page:
What is thunderstorm asthma?
Thunderstorm asthma can occur when high levels of grass pollen combine with certain thunderstorm conditions. Tiny pollen particles can become concentrated in the air and be breathed deep into the lungs, where they can rapidly trigger asthma symptoms. People with asthma or a history of asthma are at increased risk, as are people with seasonal hay fever related to grass pollen, even if they have not previously been diagnosed with asthma.
Who is at risk of thunderstorm asthma?
People at risk of thunderstorm asthma include those with:
- Current or past asthma
- Undiagnosed asthma
- Springtime hay fever (noting in south-east Australia, springtime hay fever is often triggered by grass pollen).
The risk is even higher for people who have both asthma and hay fever, especially if their asthma is poorly controlled.
Supporting your patients to prepare for thunderstorm asthma
General practices can use this time to identify and support patients who may be at increased risk.
Current advice includes reviewing asthma management and ensuring Asthma Action Plans are up to date, checking inhaler technique and medication use, managing hay fever, and ensuring patients understand asthma first aid.
Patients at risk should also be encouraged to monitor pollen levels and weather conditions and stay inside before and during thunderstorms with wind gusts.
Useful resources for health professionals
The following resources can support your practice and patients during thunderstorm asthma season:
