The next four weeks are set to be the most perilous for Riverina residents prone to respiratory problems, including asthma and hayfever.
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Murrumbidgee Local Health District director of public health Tracey Oakman has issued a statement warning sufferers to take particular care during the final weeks of spring.
A thunderstorm in late spring has the potential to cause life-threatening conditions, similar to those seen in Melbourne during the 2016 storm.
At that time, nine people died follow a severe attack, and another 3643 people presented to hospital for respiratory related illness.
"Thunderstorms cause pollen grains to explode and release fine particles which can be inhaled more deeply into the lungs making even more people wheeze and sneeze," Mrs Oakman said.
"People should be prepared, not alarmed, and anyone with diagnosed asthma should carry their asthma medication with them at all times during this high risk period.
"Where possible avoid being outside during thunderstorms over the next four weeks. Parents should be vigilant to keep their children inside during storms, with the doors and windows closed."
The Public Health unit monitors thunderstorm activity conducts daily pollen counts with the help of Charles Sturt University.
Residents may subscribe to an SMS alert system that will notify when extreme conditions are present. Text 'asthma' to 0417 115 876.