Table 3. The evidence for thunderstorm-related epidemics of rhinitis and asthma exacerbations.

The occurrence of epidemics is strictly linked to thunderstorm

The epidemics related to thunderstorm are limited to late spring and summer when there are high levels of airborne pollen grain

There is a close temporal association between the arrival of thunderstorm, a major rise in the concentration of pollen grains, and the onset of outbreak

Subjects with pollinosis, who stay indoors with the window closed during thunderstorms, are not involved

There is a major risk for subjects who are not under correct antiasthma treatment, but subjects with allergic rhinitis and without previous asthma can experience severe bronchoconstriction