Ballarat residents will face a moderate risk of thunderstorm asthma on Thursday, according to a Health and Human Services Department forecast.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
A number of factors, including pollen count, wind direction, the possibility of thunderstorms and temperature, were considered when assessing the risk of asthma attacks.
The forecast has been made for most of the state, including the Ballarat, Golden Plains and Central Highlands regions.
Department spokesperson Bram Alexander said people with asthma or allergies should ensure they kept their medication with them.
“What we want people to do is be aware of that, especially those who suffer from asthma or have an allergy,” he said.
“Those that have asthma need to have their medication with them and make sure if they are having trouble with their breathing, they use their medication, and be aware of the conditions around them.
“Given what happened in November last year, we are erring on the side of caution.”
Nine people died and more than 8000 sought hospital assistance during a storm late last year.