Recent research highlighted by MedicalXpress reveals a growing public health concern that often goes unnoticed after hurricanes, severe storms or flooding events. Once the immediate danger passes, homeowners are frequently left with a much quieter threat inside their walls and flooring. Mold growth following water intrusion is now being described as a hidden health crisis affecting families long after the disaster itself has ended.
According to the report, mold exposure has become one of the most widespread environmental health challenges in the aftermath of natural disasters. You can read the full article here:
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-11-hidden-health-crisis-natural-disasters.html
This issue is especially relevant for homeowners in the Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Holly Springs and surrounding communities. With more frequent weather events and aging residential construction, homes across the Triangle are increasingly vulnerable to moisture intrusions that can quickly lead to mold growth.
In this article, EMERG+NC provides a clear explanation of why mold becomes such a significant risk, the health effects associated with prolonged exposure, and the steps homeowners should take immediately after water damage.
Why Mold Becomes a Serious Problem After Storms or Water Damage
Moisture is the primary driver of mold growth inside homes. Once building materials such as drywall, insulation, flooring or framing absorb water, mold can begin developing in as little as 24 hours. Post flood and post storm environments create ideal conditions for mold because:
- Homes often remain damp long after visible water is removed
- HVAC systems continue pushing humid air through the home
- Wall cavities, subflooring and attics can trap moisture
- Drywall and insulation absorb water quickly and dry slowly
- Contaminated stormwater carries organic debris that encourages fungal growth
According to environmental health researchers cited by MedicalXpress, nearly half of homes affected by severe weather events show measurable mold growth in the weeks following cleanup.
This means that even if a property looks dry, the unseen conditions inside the structure may already support active mold colonies.
Health Concerns Associated With Mold Exposure
The MedicalXpress report highlights several health concerns associated with mold contamination after natural disasters. These include:
- Increased respiratory symptoms in children and adults
- Higher incidence of coughing, wheezing and chest tightness
- Exacerbation of conditions such as asthma or chronic sinus inflammation
- Greater risk of allergic reactions or skin irritation
- Prolonged exposure potentially contributing to long term respiratory illness
Mold produces microscopic spores that become airborne and circulate through living spaces. Once inhaled, these spores can trigger inflammation and immune responses, especially for individuals who are sensitive or have pre existing respiratory conditions. Research referenced in the article also notes that recovering from mold exposure can take months for some individuals.
For property owners, this reinforces why water damage is not simply a structural concern. It is a health issue that requires immediate and professional attention.
Why DIY Cleanup Often Fails
One of the most important lessons from the research is that homeowners often underestimate the scale of mold contamination. After storms, many people attempt to dry affected areas themselves or rely on surface level cleaning. Unfortunately, this leaves behind deep moisture pockets that continue feeding mold growth.
Common DIY limitations include:
- Household fans cannot fully dry structural materials
- Bleach and basic cleaners do not eliminate mold within porous materials
- Homeowners cannot measure moisture inside walls or subflooring
- Mold may spread behind drywall or above ceilings without any visible signs
- Insufficient drying creates conditions for mold to return even after cleaning
Professional structural drying and mold remediation are designed to address these exact problems. At EMERG+NC, our team follows IICRC S500 standards for water mitigation and IICRC S520 standards for professional mold remediation, ensuring that moisture sources are identified, corrected and eliminated instead of being hidden or ignored.
What Homeowners Should Do After Water Damage
Homeowners who have experienced flooding, roof leaks, plumbing failures or storm intrusions should take the following steps immediately:
- Document the damage for insurance purposes
- Shut off potential electrical hazards if water reached outlets or appliances
- Contact a certified water mitigation company to begin structural drying
- Have the property inspected for concealed moisture
- Avoid disturbing suspected mold growth to prevent spreading spores
- Do not attempt to remove wet drywall or insulation without guidance
- Keep windows cracked only if humidity outside is lower than indoors
Fast, professional response is the most reliable method to prevent long term mold problems.
EMERG+NC’s Professional Role in Preventing Post Storm Mold
EMERG+NC Property Rescuers has served the Triangle for more than 16 years and has extensive experience managing water emergencies, structural drying, and mold remediation. Our technicians use moisture mapping, thermal imaging, HEPA negative air systems and advanced dehumidification to ensure all moisture is fully removed before mold becomes a secondary disaster.
We also work directly with homeowners, adjusters and insurance carriers to document the mitigation process, support your claim and ensure proper coverage for necessary repairs.
Our rapid response services include:
- Emergency water extraction
- Structural drying and dehumidification
- Moisture mapping and inspection
- Contaminated material removal
- Mold remediation and clearance preparation
- Reconstruction coordination and repair
Flooding and water damage can escalate quickly. Our goal is to protect your family’s health and your home’s structural integrity by addressing moisture before mold takes hold.
Final Thoughts
The MedicalXpress article reinforces what restoration professionals have seen for years. While storms and flooding create immediate property damage, the more dangerous threat often emerges in the days and weeks afterward. Mold growth is a hidden health crisis, and proper water mitigation is the only effective way to prevent it.
Homeowners who act quickly and partner with a certified restoration team dramatically reduce long term risks. If your home has been exposed to moisture, flooding or storm intrusion, EMERG+NC is available around the clock to help.
To read the original article that inspired this discussion, visit:
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-11-hidden-health-crisis-natural-disasters.html
