Thunderstorms Linked to Increased Asthma-Related Emergency Room Visits in Wichita, Kansas
New research indicates a important correlation between thunderstorms and a surge in asthma-related emergency room (ER) visits in Wichita, Kansas, a city already recognized as a leading “allergy capital” by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). This is the first study to specifically investigate this link within the Wichita area.
Researchers analyzed five years of ER data – from January 2020 to december 2024 – collected from three Wichita hospitals. This data was compared with local meteorological records. The analysis revealed that while storm days comprised only 2% of the total days studied, they accounted for 14.1% of all asthma-related ER visits.
Specifically, approximately 4,500 asthma-related ER visits were documented over the five-year period. during thunderstorm events, the average number of daily ER visits related to asthma jumped to nearly 18, compared to roughly three on non-storm days. 38 storm days were recorded during the study period.
The findings, currently being presented at the annual meeting of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, are considered preliminary as the study has not yet undergone peer review. researchers emphasize that the data demonstrates a correlation, not necessarily a cause-and-effect relationship. However, they suggest that thunderstorm conditions – including changes in wind and pollen dispersion - may contribute to asthma flare-ups.
The research highlights the importance of awareness for both individuals with asthma and their healthcare providers. Proactive asthma management, such as consistent use of controller medications and carrying rescue inhalers, is recommended. Clinicians are encouraged to routinely discuss environmental triggers with their patients.
While mild rain can reduce pollen levels, thunderstorm asthma appears to be a more complex phenomenon. Previous research suggests strong thunderstorm winds can loft pollen and mold into the air,and the storm’s electrical activity or moisture can break down pollen into smaller,more allergenic fragments.
Further research is planned to investigate the specific combination of weather and environmental factors – including wind patterns, humidity, and pollen data – that contribute to these asthma surges. For individuals with asthma, staying indoors during thunderstorms is advised as a precautionary measure.
