Hurricane Hidden Dangers: After the Storm
After Helene, many homeowners are facing lots of hurricane hidden dangers. While people generally know what to expect from intense hurricanes, the aftermath can offer lots of nasty surprises. Usually, flooding and storm surges receive the bulk of the attention. That said, many more threats often come after the storm has passed.
These dangers can be hazardous to your family’s health and your property. It’s important to understand the risks and take immediate action to stay out of harm’s way.
Hurricane Hidden Dangers Start with Contaminated Water
Water is the essence of life for everyone on the planet. Unfortunately, one of the most common hurricane hidden dangers is water contamination. These storms can play havoc with our precious water sources.
You see, floodwaters often mix with sewage, chemicals, and even animal waste. These waters can spread harmful bacteria and diseases, such as diarrhea and other waterborne illnesses. Surfaces like countertops, floors, and even children’s toys can become contaminated. It is crucial to clean and disinfect everything that has come into contact with floodwater. You never know what can be a source of contamination.
Watch Out for Mold Growth
In the humid environment left behind by hurricanes, mold is another of the hurricane hidden dangers. Mold thrives in damp conditions. After a storm, homes are often filled with moisture. This can lead to serious health risks, especially for people with asthma or respiratory conditions. Besides this, mold can cause skin irritation and affect your lungs over time.
The best solution is to dry out your home as quickly as possible. To do this, hook up a few fans and dehumidifiers. These can help remove moisture. If mold appears, scrub it away with a solution of water and bleach. If the problem is too widespread, you may need to call for professional help. After all, mold can be extremely dangerous.
Bug Off: Mosquitoes and Diseases
After hurricanes, the large amounts of standing water left behind provide the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes. As water collects in gutters, flowerpots, and other areas, mosquitoes will quickly lay their eggs. While the mosquito population might dip immediately after the storm, it usually skyrockets within weeks. This increases the risk of diseases like Zika or the West Nile virus.
To get rid of these pests, it’s best to drain any standing water. Be absolutely sure to dump out containers that collect rain. Don’t forget to check and clear your gutters as well. Finally, try using mosquito repellents and wear long sleeves if you’re spending a lot of time outdoors.
Contaminated Drinking Water
Another hurricane hidden danger involves the drinking water supply. Flooding can damage pipes and introduce harmful bacteria into water systems. This can lead to illnesses, including gastrointestinal issues or even more dangerous conditions like amebic encephalitis. After a hurricane, it's important to check for water advisories in your area.
To keep your drinking water safe, boil it before drinking or cooking. Keep doing this until you receive an all-clear message from your local water authority. To be even safer, just use bottled water. Again, don’t be afraid to have your home and water system tested by a professional.
Look for Hidden Structural Damage
Not all hurricane hidden dangers are related to health risks. Your home itself might have sustained damage that's not immediately obvious. Flooding can weaken foundations, while strong winds may have damaged roofs and walls. If left unchecked, these problems can become worse over time, putting your safety at risk.
After the storm, thoroughly inspect your home for structural damage. If you're not sure what to look for, call in a pro. Cracks in the foundation, roof damage, and any weakened walls can be extremely dangerous to your family. These need to be repaired as soon as possible.
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, homeowners need to be aware of these hurricane hidden dangers. By staying informed and taking prompt action, you can protect your family and home from the surprising hazards that follow in the storm’s wake. Once again, pay close attention any alerts from local authorities. They can provide guidance to help your family weather the storm and the aftermath.
