Thunderstorm asthma warning for NSW
26 Sep 2025
Thunderstorm asthma occurs when high pollen levels coincide with thunderstorms, triggering asthma symptoms such as wheezing, chest tightness, coughing, and difficulty breathing. These symptoms can escalate quickly and may become life threatening. In NSW, the highest risk period is between October and December, when pollen levels are high and thunderstorms become more common.
Professor Connie Katelaris, Senior Staff Specialist in Allergy and Clinical Immunology, explained that thunderstorm asthma requires very specific conditions:
“Specific thunderstorm conditions related to moisture and airflow can increase exposure to tiny pollen fragments. This exposure can trigger asthma symptoms rapidly, which may become life threatening.”
High levels of rye grass pollen in some areas of NSW have been linked to thunderstorm asthma. Professor Katelaris advises:
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People with diagnosed asthma should continue using their preventer medication and keep their reliever medication accessible.
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Even those without asthma may experience symptoms if they have allergies like hay fever or undiagnosed asthma.
High-risk areas include southern NSW and the Riverina, though events have been reported west of the dividing range from Tamworth to Albury. Residents in the Riverina can register for automated alerts via SMS or email for high thunderstorm asthma risk.
Steps to prepare:
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Ensure you or your child has an up-to-date asthma action plan.
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Provide schools, preschools, or childcare centres with current asthma plans.
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Check that reliever medications and spacers are up-to-date and easily accessible.
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Learn the warning signs of asthma, including wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, or persistent cough, and know when to seek medical advice.
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During high pollen and thunderstorm conditions, stay indoors with windows and doors closed where possible.
Emergency symptoms:
Seek urgent help if you experience:
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Severe difficulty breathing, laboured breathing, or lips turning blue
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Reliever medication provides little relief
In an emergency, call 000.
For more information on thunderstorm asthma, visit the NSW Health website.
Source: NSW Health
