ACT Health warns there may be a thunderstorm asthma event on Tuesday due to elevated pollen levels and the risk of severe thunderstorms in the region.
While not all thunderstorms create asthma events, people who have hay fever or asthma should be vigilant as storms approach the Territory.
Those diagnosed with asthma should carry a reliever inhaler with them in case symptoms develop.
Where possible Canberrans should avoid being outside during a thunderstorm and during the wind gusts before a storm.
Hot with the chance of gusty storms in #Canberra today. With lots of pollen about this means a risk of thunderstorms triggering asthma. For more info see @ACTHealth.
— Bureau of Meteorology Australian Capital Territory (@BOM_ACT) November 30, 2020
Keep an eye out for potential #thunderstorm#warnings at https://t.co/YR0iftvC8N. pic.twitter.com/rrsicdo3Xb
To avoid pollen particles entering your home, close doors and windows and if you have air-conditioning turn it to the recirculate setting.
If you develop asthma symptoms follow your asthma action plan, and use your reliever. If your symptoms do not improve from your usual asthma treatment seek urgent medical advice.
In a medical emergency call 000 immediately.
ACT Health reminds Canberrans to see their doctor or pharmacist and make sure their asthma action plans are up to date.
An asthma action plan is crucial during the ACT's pollen season, between September and January.
People with asthma should use preventer medicine daily and have a reliever inhaler with them in case symptoms develop.
- Canberrans can monitor pollen levels using the AirRater app, which can be downloaded via https://airrater.org/
- To monitor levels of grass pollen go to the Canberra Pollen Count and Forecast Service: http://www.canberrapollen.com.au
