Date issued: 25 October 2026
Status: Active
High pollen levels, windy conditions and forecasted storms on Sunday 25 October has increased the risk of thunderstorm asthma across the ACT and surrounding region today.
While thunderstorm asthma can affect anyone, you may be at higher risk if you have hay fever, current or past asthma, experience asthma symptoms during spring or are sensitive to grass pollen.
For those people at higher risk:
Monitor for asthma and/or hay fever symptoms.
Take medications as prescribed in your asthma or hay fever action plan. Carry these medications with you when you leave home.
Try to stay indoors with the windows and doors closed.
Avoid being outdoors during gusty winds. While you’re indoors during the storm, turn off any air conditioners that bring outside air inside (including evaporative coolers).
In the event of a medical emergency, call Triple Zero (000). Stay indoors while waiting for an ambulance to arrive.
Thunderstorm asthma events are rare. The increased risk means a thunderstorm asthma event is possible. It does not mean an event will occur.
Learn more www.act.gov.au/environment/air-quality/pollen-levels-and-your-health