Victoria cautions that thunderstorm asthma risk could spike during an already intense pollen season, driven by a warm, wet winter that boosted grass growth.

Health officials urge people, especially those with hay fever and asthma, to prepare and maintain asthma management by taking prescribed meds and following an asthma action plan.

Immunotherapy and desensitisation treatments may gradually retrain the immune system to tolerate pollen and reduce hay fever symptoms over time.

Officials note the 2016 event as a catalyst for stronger surveillance and response systems, including upgraded forecast capabilities.

Victoria has deployed a modern Epidemic Thunderstorm Asthma Risk Forecast System with automated pollen counters and advanced imaging for faster, more precise data.

Residents are advised to close windows and stay indoors during storms and windy periods, and to get tested for asthma if hay fever symptoms arise.

From now until year-end, three-day thunderstorm asthma risk forecasts will cover nine weather districts via the VicEmergency website and app, backed by seven high-tech pollen counters statewide.

Thunderstorm asthma occurs when storm moisture ruptures pollen grains, releasing fine particles that can reach the lungs and trigger severe symptoms, particularly in those with hay fever who develop asthma.

Medical experts emphasize effective asthma control and advise consulting a GP if breathlessness, wheeze, or chest tightness occur, as these may indicate asthma rather than hay fever alone.

About 11% of Australians have asthma and roughly 25% suffer from allergic rhinitis, highlighting the public health stakes of preparedness and proper management.

Experts anticipate a stronger pollen season in greener north-west Victoria, potentially increasing pollen production and exposure.