Hurricane Helene: Flooding and The Impact it May Have on Your Health

Hurricane Helene: Flooding and The Impact it May Have on Your Health

By Nicole Roche and Dr. Mark Supino

Hurricane Helene’s path of destruction has left many regions in the southeastern United States unrecognizable due to deadly flooding. Along with causing damage to property and the surrounding landscape, flood waters can also bring major health and safety risks.

Here’s how it could affect those in flooded areas.

Water Contamination

One of the biggest concerns is water contamination. Flooding brings excess standing water, which allows for different bacteria to grow. That includes foodborne bacteria and mold. The most common bacteria found in floodwater are E. coli, Salmonella, and Leptospira. All of these can easily infect open wounds, while mold can negatively affect those who suffer from asthma and respiratory diseases.

Drowning, Injuries, and Diseases

Floodwater can also increase the chances of drowning, even for skilled swimmers. These swift floodwaters can sweep anyone or anything in its path. It’s important to be aware of potential hazards that these waters may conceal, like open sewers and live wires. Swimming water, especially on the intercostal, may become contaminated due to flooding. It’s crucial to stay up to date on the status of the public, intercostal swimming waters that could have been impacted by flooding.

Impact on Mental Health

Aside from the physical effects, your mental health can be significantly impacted by floodwaters. Loss of electricity, being displaced from your home and/or loved ones, and grieving the loss of property or items can bring about feelings of anxiety, stress, isolation, and hopelessness. While these are challenging times that you or a loved one might be navigating, it’s important to reach out to a support system, as well use local resources that may be available to you.

Dr. Mark Supino is an emergency medicine physician at Jackson Memorial Hospital.