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South China Morning Post

When a fear of thunderstorms becomes a phobia and how to deal with it

If the sound of thunder rumbling makes you panic or you dread a flash of lightning, you are not alone in worrying about thunderstorms. Advertisement Here is how to decide whether you need treatment, and how you can overcome this fear. 'Normal' nervousness during thunderstorms is common – people are often momentarily unsettled by a loud clap of thunder or a bright flash of lightning. The fear of thunder and lightning, known as astraphobia, or the fear of thunder – brontophobia – is diagnosed when that fear is excessively strong and disrupts your daily life. You may experience physical symptoms such as a racing heart, trembling, sweating or shortness of breath as a thunderstorm approaches. These symptoms can also appear when a storm is forecast. Advertisement Hallmarks of this condition are pronounced avoidance behaviour, such as avoiding outdoor activities, and constantly checking weather apps.