Victorians warned of epidemic thunderstorm asthma as strong winds batter state

Victorians are being warned that the wild weather expected to lash the state could pose a major health risk because of these factors.

Victorians are being warned to brace for a high risk of “epidemic thunderstorm asthma” as wild weather threatens to hammer the state on Thursday afternoon.

Victoria’s chief health officer Professor Brett Sutton advised that Victorians in the west and south Gippsland weather districts were at the highest risk.

“The combination of forecast high grass pollen levels and an unexpected thunderstorm with strong winds means that there is a chance that a large number of people may develop asthma symptoms over a short period of time,” a Department of Health statement read.

“Health and emergency services are monitoring the situation closely and are ready to respond.”

People with asthma or hay fever, or who experience wheezing, breathlessness, a feeling of tightness in the chest or a persistent cough, should have their reliever medication with them at all times on Thursday.

They have also been advised to avoid the wind gusts before the storm by going inside and closing all windows and doors.

The Bureau of Meteorology forecasts scattered showers across the state, with the risk of thunderstorms.

The storms could become “more extensive” during the afternoon.

Thunderstorms could be severe over central and eastern districts during the afternoon and evening.

If you have asthma or hay fever, you should review the asthma first aid steps:

• Phone Nurse on Call on 1300 60 60 24 or see your local doctor if you require medical advice
• Phone triple-0 immediately if someone is not breathing, if their asthma suddenly becomes worse or is not improving or if the person is having an asthma attack and a reliever puffer is not available.

For up-to-date information visit the VicEmergency website or download the VicEmergency App.