Victorians are being encouraged to prepare for thunderstorm asthma as grass pollen season officially sets in.
The warning comes as 2026 marks a decade since Victoria experienced the world's largest epidemic thunderstorm asthma event.
It caused breathing difficulties for thousands and tragically contributed to the deaths of 10 Victorians.
Since this event, Labor has invested and expanded Victoria's world-leading Epidemic Thunderstorm Asthma Risk Forecast System.
The sophisticated technology will be used again this year to keep Victorians safer on high-risk days.
The seven pollen counters are spread across the state and use advanced imaging to deliver faster and more accurate data collection.
This data is made available daily via the VicEmergency website and app from 1 October until 31 December.
It provides a three-day forecast for Victoria's nine weather districts, indicating a low, moderate or high risk.
Anyone with asthma or hay fever is encouraged to follow the forecasts and be prepared by:
- taking any prescribed medication
- following their asthma action plan
- closing windows and avoiding outdoor exposure during wind gusts and storms.
By being prepared, Victorians can also help to reduce demand on Victoria's hardworking paramedics and hospitals.
Thunderstorm asthma occurs when high grass pollen levels combine with a certain type of thunderstorm.
It causes the grass pollen grains to burst into tiny particles, which can be inhaled deep into the lungs and trigger asthma symptoms.
To access forecasts and health advice, visit emergency.vic.gov.au or betterhealth.vic.gov.au/thunderstorm-asthma.
As stated by Minister of Health Ingrid Stitt
"Our high-tech pollen counters give Victoria a nation leading tool to keep Victorians healthy and safe."
"We want every Victorian to be safe this pollen season that's why we're encouraging everyone to be prepared."
As stated by Victorian Chief Health Officer Dr Caroline McElnay
"Thunderstorm asthma can be life-threatening. People at risk should go indoors during thunderstorms, especially when gusty winds arrive before the storm."
"If you have asthma, make sure your written asthma action plan is up to date, take your medications as prescribed, and know what to do if symptoms worsen."
