Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of flooding events in Connecticut.
Heavy rain and localized flooding cannot only increases risk of trauma and drowning but also can carrycarry sewage, chemicals, and harmful bacteria. CHPCA urges rResidents are urged to avoid contact with floodwaters, protect open wounds, and practice food, water, and mold safety during cleanup. Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of flooding events in Connecticut.
Key Messages
Avoid contact with floodwater when possible; do not let children play in floodwater.
Keep open cuts and wounds out of water; wash immediately with soap and clean water if exposed and monitor for signs of infection.
Throw away food, medicine, cosmetics, and bottled water that have come in contact with floodwater; when in doubt, throw it out.
Do not drive through flooded roads ("Turn Around, Don't Drown"). Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down; 12 inches can carry away most vehicles.
Use proper protective gear during cleanup: waterproof gloves, rubber boots, eye protection, and a properly fitted N95 respirator when dealing with mold or sewage.
Assume all standing water in basements may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines. Have an electrician check before entering.
Do not use a generator indoors or in enclosed spaces: carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal.
Floodwater Contamination Risks
Sewage and human/animal waste containing bacteria (E. coli, Salmonella, Shigella)
Chemicals from households, farms, and industrial sites
Heating oil, gasoline, or other petroleum products
Sharp objects, debris, and unstable structures
Wildlife (snakes, rodents) seeking higher ground
Mold Prevention and Cleanup
Mold can grow within 24-48 hours after flooding. To prevent mold:
Remove standing water and dry out buildings as quickly as possible (within 24-48 hours if possible).
Remove and discard porous materials that have been wet for more than 48 hours (carpet, padding, upholstery, drywall, insulation, ceiling tiles).
Clean and disinfect hard surfaces with water and detergent. Do not mix cleaning products.
Use dehumidifiers and fans to speed drying, but only after standing water is removed.
Wear N95 respirator, gloves, and eye protection when cleaning moldy materials.
People with asthma, allergies, or weakened immune systems should not participate in cleanup.
When to Seek Medical Care
Rapidly worsening wound pain, redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or fever after exposure to floodwater
Diarrhea, vomiting, or abdominal pain after possible contaminated water exposure
Respiratory symptoms after mold exposure (coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing)
Signs of dehydration, dizziness, confusion, or difficulty breathing
Skin rash or irritation after contact with floodwater or chemical
For tetanus concerns: If you have a dirty wound and haven't had a tetanus shot in 5+ years, or any wound and no shot in 10+ years, contact your healthcare provider.
Connecticut-Specific Information
Connecticut has experienced increasingly severe flooding events, including the devastating floods of August 2024 that affected multiple communities. The Yale Center on Climate Change and Health's research indicates that climate change is intensifying precipitation events in Connecticut, leading to more frequent flash flooding. Local health departments provide cleanup guidance and can assess flood-related health risks in your community.
Warmer temperatures → Increased flooding/Severe Weather → Texas 2025 / Oxford, CT 2024 example, bacteria loads in beaches → Not only human health but economy/food (farmers) → Pointed Health Tips ( see above)
The CDC provides comprehensive guidance on flood cleanup and health hazards. Healthcare providers should be alert for flood-related infections, including wound infections from waterborne bacteria, gastrointestinal illness from contaminated water, and respiratory issues from mold exposure.
Clinicians should be aware that leptospirosis risk increases significantly after flooding due to contamination of water and soil with the urine of infected animals. Patients should avoid contact with potentially contaminated water and start antibiotic treatment promptly if leptospirosis is suspected.
The AMA emphasizes that physicians should notify public health authorities when they observe patterns of illness that may indicate environmental health risks.
Connecticut's hurricane season runs June through November. CHPCA urges residents to prepare now to stay safe before, during, and after storms: especially older adults, those with medical conditions, and families who rely on electricity for medical devices. Climate change is intensifying hurricanes and expanding their impact northward.
Key Messages - Before the Storm
Prepare an emergency kit with water (1 gallon per person per day for 3 days), non-perishable food, medications, flashlight, batteries, first aid supplies, and important documents in waterproof container.
Ensure you have at least a 7-10 day supply of prescription medications and keep a list of medications, dosages, and allergies.
Know how to keep refrigerated medications safe if the power goes out. Check the medication label or ask a pharmacist or your healthcare provider; many medications (e.g., insulin) have specific room-temperature time limits.
If you use electricity-dependent medical equipment (oxygen concentrator, CPAP, nebulizer, power wheelchair), register with your utility company's medical customer list and have a backup plan.
Fill vehicles with gas; have cash on hand as ATMs and credit card systems may not work.
Charge cell phones and portable chargers.
CT residents can register for CT Alert (Everbridge) at the state portal: www.ctalert.gov
Key Messages - During the Storm
Stay indoors and away from windows; go to interior room on lowest floor.
Never use generators indoors or near windows: carbon monoxide can be lethal.
Avoid floodwaters and downed power lines.
Stay informed with alerts from CT DEMHS, NOAA Weather Radio, local media, and emergency alerts on your phone.
Do not go outside until officials say it is safe, even if the weather appears calm.
Key Messages - After the Storm
Continue avoiding floodwaters, which may be contaminated with sewage or chemicals.
Watch for carbon monoxide poisoning if using generators, symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion.
Throw away food that has been at unsafe temperatures (above 40°F for more than 2 hours).
Be alert for mold growth in flooded buildings; wear N95 respirator during cleanup.
Check on neighbors, especially older adults and those with disabilities.
Contact your healthcare provider if you need prescription refills or medical attention.
Connecticut-Specific Information
Connecticut has experienced significant hurricane impacts in recent years, including Tropical Storm Isaias (2020) which left 800,000+ without power. The Yale Center on Climate Change and Health reports that warming ocean temperatures are increasing hurricane intensity. Coastal flooding from storm surge is a growing concern for Connecticut shoreline communities. The CT DPH Office of Climate and Health provides planning resources for health departments and healthcare facilities.
The CDC provides guidance on disaster preparedness for people with chronic conditions and disabilities. Healthcare providers should help patients develop personal emergency plans, including medication needs, medical equipment power requirements, and transportation assistance. The AMA recognizes that physicians have responsibilities in disaster preparedness and should acquire appropriate knowledge to provide care during emergencies.
