
Weathering the Storm: Navigating the Aftermath of Natural Disasters Part 2
In this second of our two articles we consider how to safely clear and restore your home post-disaster while prioritizing your health.
WORDS Elissa Rose
In this second of our two articles we consider how to safely clear and restore your home post-disaster while prioritizing your health.
WORDS Elissa Rose
In the aftermath of a natural disaster, the immediate priority often seems to be clearing debris, making repairs, and recovering from losses incurred. It’s only natural to wish to return to a sense of normalcy after this kind of trauma, yet while the visible destruction may seem like the biggest challenge, hidden hazards often pose even greater risks. Contaminated floodwaters can introduce bacteria and toxic chemicals into homes, wildfire smoke can settle into walls and fabrics, and structural damage from hurricanes and earthquakes can weaken buildings in ways that aren't always obvious. Without the right precautions, the cleanup process itself can lead to illness, injury and further property damage.
In this guide, the second in our double feature, we focus on the often-overlooked health hazards of home recovery in disaster response and outline practical steps for cleaning up in a way that protects both you and those around you. Time is critical as acting quickly can prevent long-term health complications and reduce the likelihood of future damage. Whether facing flooding, wildfires, hurricanes or earthquakes, understanding how to restore your home safely is just as important as preparing for the disaster. This advice should be taken as guidelines only, we encourage consultation with appropriate professionals or local authorities before embarking on home restoration in the aftermath of a disaster.
Flooding can introduce a host of health hazards into your home, including contaminated water, mold and bacteria. Stagnant water often harbors sewage, industrial chemicals and harmful microorganisms, creating an environment ripe for illness and infection. Respiratory issues are common due to rapid mold growth in damp conditions, especially for individuals with allergies or asthma.
“There’s a general misperception that after the flames go out the hazard has gone away."
Joseph Allen, director of Harvard Healthy Buildings Program
“There’s a general misperception that after the flames go out the hazard has gone away,” says the director of Harvard Healthy Buildings Program, Joseph Allen. The aftermath of a wildfire often lingers in the form of hazardous air quality, soot-covered surfaces and structural damage. An elevated level of lead in the air is also a cause for concern. Smoke from burning buildings contains a variety of gases and particles from the materials that fuel the fire. These include ozone,carbon monoxide,polycyclic aromatic compounds, nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter – pollutants linked to cancer, and respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses according to the Journal of the American Heart Association.
Hurricanes and storms can combine flooding, wind damage and power outages, creating complex health risks. Flooded homes may harbor mold, while damaged roofs and walls allow pests and bacteria to enter. Power outages can lead to food spoilage and unsafe drinking water.
Earthquakes can cause severe structural damage, disrupt utilities and create hazardous living conditions. Beyond the immediate danger of collapsing buildings, they can expose residents to long-term health risks from airborne debris, contaminated water and unstable infrastructure. Power outages, gas leaks and damaged roads can also delay emergency response and access to essential resources.
In the wake of a disaster, recovery is about more than just repairing homes, it’s about rebuilding lives. The emotional toll can be just as overwhelming as the physical damage, making it essential to seek mental health support and stay connected with community networks. Leaning on others, whether through local resources, support groups, or simply neighbors helping one another, can provide the strength and resilience needed to heal and move forward together.
Feature Image: Nielsen Schuh Architects designed a fire-resistant home in Sonoma County for a couple whose original house was lost to wildfire. Photo courtesy of Ethan Gordon.