Important Information
What is thunderstorm asthma?
In Victoria, the grass pollen season usually runs from 1 October to 31 December. During this time, you may notice an increase in asthma and hay fever. The season also brings the chance of thunderstorm asthma.
Thunderstorm asthma can occur when there is a lot of grass pollen in the air and a specific kind of thunderstorm.
Grass pollen grains get swept up in the wind and carried for long distances. Some can burst open and release tiny particles that are concentrated in the wind gusts that come just before a thunderstorm. These particles are small enough for people to breathe deep into their lungs and can rapidly trigger asthma symptoms, even in those who have never had asthma before.
When many people develop asthma symptoms over a short period of time during these conditions, it is known as epidemic thunderstorm asthma.
Thunderstorm asthma | Better Health Channel
Children’s Week is a national celebration that recognises the talents, skills, achievements and rights of children.
It will run from Saturday 18 October to Sunday 26 October 2025, with thousands of Victorian children and families expected to take part.
This year’s theme is ‘Everyone should know about Children’s Rights’, based on Article 42 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
During Children’s Week, local councils, not-for-profit organisations, schools and early childhood services will host in-person and online events and activities that celebrate childhood and showcase children’s achievements.
The department is supporting more than 240 free Children’s Week events and activities for Victorian families with children aged up to 12 years. This gives families the opportunity to enjoy fun, engaging and educational experiences.
