Understanding thunderstorm asthma

An award-winning Melbourne-based science communicator will next Saturday discuss research into hay fever and asthma and as well as a personal journey into Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) at the Beechworth Library. The talk is being held to mark this year’s National Science Week from 9 to 17 August. Communicator and 2025-2026 STEM superstar Kira Hughes had never imagined growing up that she would become a scientist. “I had an amazing science teacher in high school who sparked my interest in science, and I have never looked back since,” she said. The scientist said she studied a Bachelor of Biomedical Science and Bachelor of Science (Honours) before completing and graduating with a PhD in thunderstorm asthma research in June this year. Dr Hughes said she has suffered from both asthma and severe hay fever all her life with a mild condition in childhood, but has intensified in recent years. She now takes daily medication for her symptoms. “When I first heard about an opening for a research project on thunderstorm asthma in 2019, I was immediately intrigued and jumped at the opportunity,” she said. “Back then, this term was unfamiliar to me, especially as an asthma sufferer, so I wanted to take on this work to not only learn more about it myself but help my fellow asthma sufferers. “My research on thunderstorm asthma is more focused on proof of concept at the very early stages of research development and understanding more about what causes these events.” Dr Hughes said she has helped set the groundwork for more research as well as laying the path for future scientists to work towards saving lives from asthma epidemics. “Outside of my research, I hold seminars and workshops such as the upcoming one at the Beechworth Library to help raise awareness for thunderstorm asthma," she said. She said her talk is about informing those at risk of the potential dangers with prevention strategies. “Science can take a long time, so communication is just as important,” she said. “I hope that my audiences will learn more about the potential risks of thunderstorm asthma and when/where they are likely to occur. “While rare, these events can cause severe asthma attacks that could lead to hospitalisation or death. “The more that people know about it, the safer they will hopefully be.” The free informative talk will take place on Saturday 9 August at the library located at 101 Ford Street from 10am to 12pm. Bookings are essential – visit www.indigoshire.vic.gov.au/Community/Libraries/Whats-On-at-our-Libraries and go to Dr Kira Hughes.

Understanding thunderstorm asthma

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