NHS Gloucestershire has warned of the possibility of "thunderstorm asthma”, as the Met Office reports thundery showers tomorrow (Thursday, June 4).

Posting to its social media, an NHS Gloucestershire spokesperson said: “Although it's not common, thunderstorms can trigger 'thunderstorm asthma' during high pollen seasons when thunderstorm winds and moisture break pollen grains into tiny particles.

“These are then blown near ground level and inhaled deeply into the lungs, making symptoms like breathlessness, wheezing and coughing worse as well as increasing the risk of asthma attacks.”

According to Asthma and Lung UK, thunderstorm asthma is rare and does not affect everybody with asthma.

It says data suggests you will have a higher risk of getting thunderstorm asthma if you have asthma and hay fever, do not manage your asthma well, or you have asthma but have not received a diagnosis yet. It also believes there is evidence that adults under 30 are more affected by the condition.

The lung charity recommends that anyone who experiences thunderstorm asthma should stay indoors before, during and after thunderstorms, keeping windows closed. If you have to go outside, wear a mask to protect yourself against pollen grains, and always keep your inhaler with you.

According to the charity’s website, Britain’s typical and sudden changes in the weather conditions can play a role in the condition. It advises those whose asthma flares up during thunderstorms to keep up to date with the latest weather, using email alerts.

You can keep informed with the latest weather in the Forest of Dean via our website, and you can find out more about thunderstorm asthma by visiting Asthma and Lung UK’s website.