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Thunderstorms Unleash Deadly Asthma Attacks: A Growing Global Threat
8 Aug
Summary
- Thunderstorms can trigger life-threatening asthma attacks
- Pollen particles become more dangerous when broken down by lightning
- Thunderstorm asthma can affect even those without prior asthma diagnosis
According to a recent report, a leading government health body has issued a warning about the increasing prevalence of a life-threatening condition known as thunderstorm asthma. This weather-related phenomenon, which has been observed since the 1980s, can trigger severe asthma attacks even in people who do not have a prior diagnosis.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) highlighted a notable case that occurred in Melbourne, Australia in 2016, where ten people died due to the overwhelming impact on the city's emergency services. The agency explains that thunderstorm activity is linked to a surge in people reporting asthma symptoms and seeking medical attention for breathing issues.
The cause of thunderstorm asthma lies in the way storms interact with pollen. In the lead-up to a thunderstorm, particularly during the spring and summer months, high winds can whip up pollen spores. These particles are then caught up in lightning strikes, which break them down into smaller, more easily inhalable fragments. This can trigger massive asthma attacks, even in individuals who have never experienced the condition before.
Experts warn that thunderstorm asthma is not limited to rural areas with high pollen counts. It can also occur in urban environments due to the presence of air pollution, which has been linked to respiratory issues. As climate change continues to drive more unpredictable and extreme weather patterns, the risk of thunderstorm asthma is expected to grow globally.
