When thunder roars...your allergies soar?
There is an unexpected connection between storms and allergy flare-ups, and it’s not only the rain
Thunderstorms have the potential to trigger asthma attacks and exacerbate seasonal allergies. But why is this?
According to experts, thunderstorms can break pollen into smaller, more irritating fragments, making them easier to inhale and aggravating respiratory systems.
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When updrafts carry pollen into thunderclouds, a combination of high humidity and electrical activity can cause pollen grains to swell and burst. These fragmented particles then disperse widely, potentially intensifying symptoms for individuals sensitive to specific pollens or mold spores.
Mariam Hanna, an allergist with the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (CSACI), notes that this phenomenon, known as “thunderstorm asthma,” was first documented in Australia. Researchers noticed a link between thunderstorms and heightened asthma symptoms among patients who were already sensitized to certain pollens.
What weather conditions often lead to allergy exposure?
According to Hanna, "typically, it’s warm, dry, windy days that really help to spread a lot of pollen farther and higher than where it normally would sit."
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For those with sensitivities, monitoring such weather conditions and staying informed about pollen levels can help reduce exposure risks.
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Header image: Cheryl Santa Maria for The Weather Network via Canva Pro.