Overview
- Researchers reviewed 4,439 asthma-related ER visits at three Wichita hospitals from January 2020 through December 2024 and identified 38 thunderstorm days.
- Storm days represented about 2% of the period yet accounted for 14% of all asthma ER visits, with an average of nearly 18 visits per storm day versus roughly 3 on other days.
- Older age was the only demographic factor associated with higher likelihood of presenting during storms, while gender, location, and disposition showed no significant links.
- Authors emphasize the findings show correlation rather than causation and point to storm conditions that can disperse or fragment pollen and mold as plausible triggers.
- The study was presented at the 2025 ACAAI meeting in Orlando and is slated for publication in Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, with follow-up work planned on wind, humidity, and pollen to inform preparedness and reduce ER strain.