Storm Recovery Safety: Understanding Asbestos Risks After Hurricanes

Hurricanes and tropical storms can leave more than visible damage. When older homes and buildings are broken apart by wind or flooding, they may release hidden dangers into the air — including asbestos.

Many older structures along the Gulf Coast contain asbestos in materials such as roofing, siding, flooring, or insulation. When disturbed during cleanup, these materials can release microscopic fibers that may cause serious illnesses, including mesothelioma.

Where Asbestos Is Commonly Found

Roofing shingles, siding, and cement boards
Ceiling and floor tiles (and some adhesives)
Pipe, boiler, and duct insulation
Joint compounds and textured coatings

Note: Asbestos is most hazardous when materials are torn, sanded, drilled, or otherwise disturbed during demolition or cleanup.

Health Risks of Exposure

Asbestos fibers can be inhaled deep into the lungs without immediate symptoms. Over time, exposure can lead to:

Mesothelioma (cancer of the lining of the lung, chest, or abdomen)
Asbestosis (chronic lung disease)
Lung cancer

Because symptoms may not appear for years, prevention is critical during storm recovery.

Safety Precautions During Cleanup

Do not disturb suspected materials. Avoid cutting, sanding, drilling, or breaking debris that may contain asbestos.
Limit access. Keep people (especially children and pets) away from affected areas until they’re assessed.
Use proper protection. If you must be near debris, wear a NIOSH-approved respirator, gloves, eye protection, and disposable coveralls.
Do not dry sweep. Wet methods and HEPA vacuums (not household vacuums) reduce fiber spread.
Hire licensed professionals. Contact a certified asbestos inspector/abatement contractor for testing and safe removal.

Free Guides from The Mesothelioma Center

To help you stay safe during storm recovery, The Mesothelioma Center offers:

Natural Disaster Asbestos Exposure Guide — How hurricanes and flooding can release asbestos, where it’s found, and key cleanup precautions.
Mesothelioma Symptoms Guide — Early warning signs and when to seek medical care.

Both guides provide practical steps to protect residents, volunteers, and contractors during and after cleanup.

Additional Official Resources

When in Doubt, Pause and Call a Pro

If you suspect asbestos is present, stop work and contact a licensed asbestos professional. Taking precautions now helps protect your health, your family, and our coastal community during recovery.