A thunderstorm asthma warning has been issued for Canberra. The ACT government says high pollen levels, windy conditions and forecast storms have raised the risk on Sunday, October 25, across the territory and surrounding region. People with asthma or hay fever are at higher risk and are advised to stay indoors with windows and doors closed, avoid gusty winds, and carry their prescribed medications. Air conditioners that draw in outside air should be turned off.
Hay fever sufferers could face a harder spring, with pollen levels expected to rise through November. Deakin University researcher Professor Cenk Suphioglu said a wet winter and warm spring weather have created ideal conditions for grass growth. He advised sufferers to stay indoors where possible and keep windows closed on windy days. People with both hay fever and asthma face the highest risk during thunderstorms with high pollen counts, and Victoria's chief health officer urged them to take precautions.
Health authorities are warning Australians to check their puffers and medication ahead of a dangerous thunderstorm asthma season this spring. Experts predict higher pollen levels in Victoria and South Australia, and say people without an asthma diagnosis could also be at risk. Asthma Australia chief executive Kate Miranda said the condition can come on quickly and affect many people at once. Those at increased risk should stay indoors during thunderstorms, keep doors and windows closed, and take preventative medication as directed, even without symptoms.
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Some migrants develop hay fever years after moving to Australia, even if they never had it before. Nearly one in four Australians has the condition, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. Sydney doctor Jason Yu says allergies can appear at any stage of life, though they often start in childhood. He said exposure to new allergens, such as dust mites and grass pollen, may be one factor. Hay fever and asthma are closely related, and Yu urged anyone short of breath to see a doctor promptly.
Some migrants develop hay fever years after moving to Australia, even if they never had allergies before. Sydney GP and clinical allergist Dr Jason Yu says allergies can appear at any stage of life, and that exposure to new allergens such as pollen and dust mites may play a role. Research has linked migration to higher rates of hay fever and asthma. Yu says people with severe breathing symptoms should see a doctor, as thunderstorm asthma can be life-threatening.
Residents of South Gippsland and the Bass Coast have been urged to prepare for a heightened risk of thunderstorm asthma. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued an updated severe weather warning for damaging winds as an intense cold front creates highly unstable conditions. Strong north westerly winds with peak gusts above 100 km/hr are moving through western and central regions and are expected to spread east by tonight. Victorian Chief Health Officer Dr Caroline McElnay warned the condition can be life-threatening.
Victorian authorities are urging residents to prepare for thunderstorm asthma as grass pollen season begins. The state has upgraded its forecasting system, which now uses seven pollen counters across Victoria. From October 1 to December 31, daily three-day forecasts will be published on the VicEmergency website and app, rating risk as low, moderate or high for nine weather districts. Health officials warn the condition can be life-threatening and advise people at risk to stay indoors during storms, especially when gusty winds arrive.
