How Thunderstorms Affect Health

Thunderstorms are dramatic events, so it’s not surprising that they often bring out powerful emotions, ranging from excitement to fear. And for people with chronic illnesses, strong emotions can sometimes contribute to physical symptoms. They might worsen an asthma attack, for example, or make it harder to manage an arthritis flare.
Yet there’s more to the story than that, according to experts in human biometeorology—the scientific study of the interaction between atmospheric processes and human health. Research suggests that there may also be a more direct link between stormy weather and wheezy airways or achy joints. Here’s what science says about the complex connection between mind, body, and thunderstorms.