Source: http://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-38121579

The number of people dying in the Australian city of Melbourne from a
rare phenomenon called thunderstorm asthma has risen to six.

Three others are in a critical condition.

Heavy rains and winds on Monday triggered thousands of pollen allergy
asthma attacks in the state of Victoria.

Paramedics and hospitals were stretched to their limits as thousands
phoned to report breathing problems.

Thunderstorm asthma occurs in the spring when rye grass pollen gets wet,
breaks into smaller pieces and enters people's lungs, causing them
breathing problems.

More than 8,000 people were treated in hospital.

About one in 10 people has asthma in Australia, with about 80% of those
sufferers experiencing allergies, particularly to rye pollen.

Melbourne's current spring season has been particularly wet, creating
havoc for asthma and hay fever sufferers.

Are you in Melbourne? Have you been affected by thunderstorm asthma?
Email us with your experiences .