Thunderstorm Asthma Warning Issued as Met Éireann Forecasts Storms After Hot Spell

The Asthma Society of Ireland is urging people with asthma and hay fever to take extra precautions as Met Éireann forecasts possible thunderstorms following the recent warm weather, warning that storms during pollen season can trigger sudden and severe asthma symptoms.

Ireland has one of the highest rates of asthma in the world, with over 450,000 people currently living with the condition. Around 80% of people with asthma also have hay fever, leaving many more at risk during periods of high pollen. For some people with hay fever, a thunderstorm can even trigger their first-ever asthma symptoms.

During a thunderstorm, strong winds carry pollen grains close to ground level. As the storm develops, those grains absorb moisture and burst into much smaller particles that can be inhaled deep into the lungs, a phenomenon known as "thunderstorm asthma."

Eilís Ní Chaithnía, CEO of the Asthma Society of Ireland, said:

"While many people welcome the recent warm weather, thunderstorms during pollen season can pose a risk for people with asthma and hay fever. Strong winds can break up pollen grains into tiny particles that are easily inhaled deep into the lungs, triggering sudden asthma symptoms. For some people with hay fever, this may even be the first time they experience asthma."

She added:

"We want people to be aware of the risks, take simple precautions and continue following their asthma management plan so they can enjoy the summer safely."

The Society is encouraging people with asthma and hay fever to stay indoors during thunderstorms where possible, keeping windows and doors closed until a storm has passed. People should carry their reliever inhaler at all times, check the daily pollen forecast at asthma.ie before spending time outdoors, and monitor local air quality at airquality.ie.

People are also advised to continue taking their prescribed controller medication even when feeling well, and to keep their Asthma Action Plan up to date, particularly during summer when routines may be disrupted.

Anyone with asthma or hay fever who experiences wheezing, coughing, chest tightness or shortness of breath during or after a thunderstorm should follow their Asthma Action Plan and seek medical advice if symptoms do not improve.

Ní Chaithnía said:

"Symptoms of an asthma attack can include coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, struggling to breathe or speak, or lips turning blue. An asthma attack is an emergency and requires immediate action. The person should sit upright and take their reliever inhaler. If symptoms persist or worsen, call 112 or 999 immediately."

Five steps to follow during a suspected asthma attack:

1. Stay calm. Sit up straight; do not lie down.
2. Take slow, steady breaths.
3. Take one puff of your reliever inhaler (usually blue) every minute, using a spacer if available. People over 6 years can take up to 10 puffs in 10 minutes. Children under 6 can take up to 6 puffs in 10 minutes. If using MART (Maintenance and Reliever Therapy), take one puff of your MART inhaler every 1 to 3 minutes, to a maximum of 6 puffs.
4. Call 112 or 999 if symptoms do not improve after 10 minutes.
5. Repeat Step 3 if an ambulance has not arrived in 10 minutes.

The Asthma Society's free nurse-led support services are available throughout the summer. People can speak with a specialist asthma nurse or physiotherapist by calling the Asthma Adviceline on 1800 44 54 64, or by messaging the Society's free nurse-led WhatsApp service on 086 059 0132. Both services are open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Please note these services are not emergency services. In the case of an asthma attack or if urgent care is needed, call 112 or 999 immediately.

For more information, asthma support, and the latest pollen forecast, visit www.asthma.ie.