Unprecedented floods hit South Florida this week. Soon, the mold may come

Heavy rains have swamped many parts of Broward, with the deluge inundating streets, shutting down an airport and seeping into buildings.

After heavy rains, your home can flood with sewage and chemicals, exposing you to viruses, bacteria and parasites. Then comes the mold, which can be dangerous and, sometimes, life-threatening.

READ MORE: The rains and floods come and go in Florida. What’s left behind can ruin homes and lives

Mold was an issue after Hurricane Ian — and it might be one after the unprecedented floods that slammed South Florida this week.

Here’s what to know about the dealing with the fungi.

Keeping yourself healthy

Mold can be dangerous and even life-threatening. Exposure can cause asthma attacks, eye and skin irritation and allergic reactions, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Those who are immunocompromised can even get severe infections from mold exposure.

READ MORE: A storm just flooded your Florida home? You may be at risk for mold sickness

Common reactions to mold include a stuffy nose, wheezing and red or itchy eyes and skin, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Those with allergies or asthma may have more intense reactions like fever and shortness of breath.

Cleaning up the mess

After a flood or storm, you should start cleanup — or hire a mold inspection or remediation professional. The first thing that needs to be done is to drain standing water and remove wet items.

READ MORE: Life in Florida means storms — and mold. What to know about cleaning up the fungi

Start drying your home as quickly as possible, removing water from floors and carpets using a wet vac. Drying your home prevents further mold damage.

Properly controlling the spread of mold may also help as getting coverage has been problematic amid an unstable and chaotic insurance market. Thousands of claims related to Hurricane Ian have been rejected, leaving many wondering what’s next.

READ MORE: Are you having issues with insurance coverage after Hurricane Ian? Mold is one reasono

This story was originally published April 13, 2023 at 1:51 PM.

Grethel Aguila

Miami Herald

Grethel covers courts and the criminal justice system for the Miami Herald. She graduated from the University of Florida (Go Gators!), speaks Spanish and Arabic and loves animals, traveling, basketball and good storytelling. Grethel also attends law school part time.