Type Status Location Last Updated
Advice - Health - Prepare Now Minor North East District Today at 1:18 PM
This Advice is being issued for North East District.
  • There is a high risk of epidemic thunderstorm asthma in the North East District on Saturday 31 October 2026
  • People may experience asthma symptoms or difficulty breathing due to thunderstorm activity.
  • Thunderstorm asthma can be triggered by a combination of high amounts of grass pollen in the air and a certain type of thunderstorm. 
  • For people who have asthma or hay fever, this can trigger severe asthma symptoms.
Be aware of an increased chance of experiencing breathing difficulties or an asthma attack. Prepare now - carry your asthma reliever puffer with you at all times on Saturday. 
What you should do:
  • Avoid the wind gusts before the storm. Go inside and close your windows and doors.
  • Turn off air conditioners that bring in air from the outside (ie evaporative air conditioners).
  • Be aware of and act on the development of asthma symptoms including wheezing, breathlessness, tightness in the chest, or a persistent cough, as you may be having an asthma attack.
  • An asthma attack is serious and can be life threatening.
If you are experiencing asthma symptoms for the first time:
  • Don't ignore them. Use the four steps of asthma first aid.
  • If you don't have an asthma reliever puffer, they are available without a prescription from pharmacies.
  • You can also use another person’s asthma reliever if available.
  • If your asthma suddenly becomes worse or is not improving, or if you are having an asthma attack and a reliever is not available, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
For health advice:
  • Call Triple Zero (000) 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 an asthma reliever puffer is not available.
  • Call Nurse on Call on 1300 60 60 24 or see your doctor if you require medical advice.
  • For urgent care that is not life-threatening, contact the Virtual Emergency Department (https://ved.vic.gov.au/) for a free video consultation with an emergency doctor or nurse.
Impacts in your area:
  • A high risk of epidemic thunderstorm asthma is forecast for North East District on Saturday 31 October.
This message was issued by Department of Health.

The next update is expected by 01/11/2026 12:20 am or as the situation changes.

For more information:
Use multiple sources to stay informed:
Accessibility:
The following services can help you, or someone you know, access information during an emergency.
  • For information in other languages call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 (freecall) and ask them to call VicEmergency Hotline.
  • If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech/communication impairment contact the National Relay Service and ask them to call the VicEmergency Hotline.