NewsHealthNHSPeople have been warned that they could face a 'triple threat' during certain weather conditions14:45, 01 Jun 2026This week, the British heatwave gives way to wet, rainy conditions, with the chance of thunder in parts of the UK. This has prompted millions to receive a health alert about how this may affect some people who have trouble breathing.‌In a post on Instagram, the NHS said: "Thunderstorms can trigger symptoms for those with lung conditions, like asthma. If the weather makes your symptoms worse and you need to use your inhaler more, talk to your pharmacist, contact your GP or NHS 111."‌The photo alongside the medical alert added that people who have been prescribed an inhaler should make sure to have it with them "during periods of thundery weather". An inhaler can help with conditions like asthma or COPD.‌Asthma is a common condition. In the UK, 7.2 million people have some degree of asthma, which works out to roughly about eight in every 100 people, according to Asthma and Lung UK.Why do people with asthma need to be careful during thunderstorms?People with asthma need to be careful during thunderstorms because the weather event can trigger sudden, severe asthma attacks. These are sometimes called 'thunderstorm asthma'.Content cannot be displayed without consent‌Asthma and Lung UK claims: "Thunderstorms can trigger your asthma, causing asthma attacks and making symptoms like breathlessness, wheezing and coughing worse." Scientists do not fully understand why thunderstorm asthma happens.People are more likely to experience this if:They have both asthma and hay feverThey are not managing their asthma wellThey have asthma, but have not yet been formally diagnosed‌Asthma UK also claims: "There is evidence that younger adults (under 30) are more affected by thunderstorm asthma."Thunderstorm asthma occurs when high winds draw higher levels of pollen and pollution particles into the atmosphere. Then, when pollen comes into contact with rainwater, it breaks down into even smaller particles.Article continues belowWhen breathed in, it can reach deeper into the airways and trigger asthma symptoms. Combined with pollen and air pollution, this creates a "triple threat situation" for those with asthma.How to manage thunderstorm asthmaIf your asthma is affected by thunderstorms, stay indoors before, during and after the weather event. It’s a good idea to keep your windows closed too, says Asthma and Lung UK.People should also try to keep a reliever inhaler with them, so it can be used quickly to treat asthma symptoms in an emergency. If you have to go outside, wear a mask to protect yourself against pollen grainsChoose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌NHSAsthmaHealthWeatherHeatwaveOn Instagram