Thunderstorm asthma warning issued for parts of Victoria

Asthma sufferers have been told to be on high alert ahead of storm activity in parts of Victoria.

Forecasts of high grass pollen levels and thunderstorms with strong winds in west and south Gippsland this afternoon sparked a thunderstorm asthma warning from the Department of Health.

The current outlook predicts the state will have an average grass pollen season this year, but authorities are warning conditions can change rapidly.

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Health and emergency services are monitoring the situation closely and are ready to respond, the Department of Health said in a statement.

Affected persons are urged to take preventative medication as directed and follow an asthma action plan, even if symptom-free.

Thunderstorm asthma events typically occur from October, when pollen is drawn into the atmosphere and dispersed through a storm.

Melbourne experienced the world's largest epidemic thunderstorm asthma event in November 2016 when 10 people died after developing breathing difficulties.

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Asthma sufferers are advised to monitor the epidemic thunderstorm asthma risk forecast on the VicEmergency app or on the Melbourne Pollen website

The forecasting system enables people who have asthma or seasonal hay fever – and who are at risk – to plan ahead and reduce their risk.

Call Nurse on Call on 1300 60 60 24 or see your local doctor if you require medical advice.

Call triple zero immediately if someone is not breathing, if their asthma suddenly becomes worse or is not improving, or if the person is having an asthma attack and a reliever puffer is not available.