by As the warm, sunny weather lifts your spirits in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, there’s an unseen health risk lurking in the air. The floods have left behind a thick layer of mud, and as it dries, fine particles are becoming airborne, creating clouds of toxic dust.
While the gentle breeze feels refreshing, it’s carrying with it a mix of pollutants. The dust clouds stirred up by passing vehicles contain not just soil, but harmful contaminants from agricultural runoff, septic spills, and industrial waste. As you navigate through these areas, you might notice coughing fits or respiratory discomfort—not uncommon reactions to inhaling these fine particles.
A client recently shared her alarming experience in the flooded Biltmore area, where she went to rescue a stranded friend. As someone who is environmentally sensitive, she quickly began to react to the air, which was laden with toxic dust and pollutants. Despite the visible hazards, FEMA personnel on-site were not actively advising residents or volunteers to wear masks; when she inquired about protective gear, they simply pointed to a table with masks, leaving her feeling unsupported. This raises crucial concerns about the safety measures—or lack thereof—in place for those involved in the cleanup.
To protect yourself, it’s crucial to take precautions when air quality is in question. If you’re in or around low-lying areas affected by flooding, consider wearing a properly fitted respirator. An N95 mask is a solid choice, but for optimal protection, a muzzle-fitting respirator is best. Standard paper masks offer minimal defense, as they do little against the ultra-fine dust.
If you’re working in these regions or simply living nearby, wearing a respirator full-time is advisable. And if you’re downwind from these areas, don’t underestimate the need for protection. Without appropriate precautions, we are at significant risk of health complications from exposure to hazardous materials. Many of us may have an urgent need for better protective protocols during this critical phase.
For those in Marshall, it’s our understanding that local non-profit Mountain True’s French Broad Riverkeeper continues to address community concerns following the destruction of the Silver Line Plastics Factory and the subsequent sediment and sludge toxicity.
Riverkeeper Hartwell Carson, is collecting soil samples from affected areas, with testing results expected soon. While he has spoken with cleanup personnel who reported no immediate incidents of skin irritation or respiratory issues, caution is still advised due to potentially high bacteria levels in the sludge.
The Riverkeepers urge community members to avoid contact with contaminated materials and, if necessary, to wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). This includes N95 masks, gloves, safety glasses, and rubber boots. Additionally, they are seeking community feedback through a Google form where individuals can report any symptoms they are experiencing. For more information and to fill out the form, follow this link: Google Form.
As the mud continues to dry and be cleared, and toxic dust becomes airborne, you may choose to take precautions. At the time of this writing, N95 masks remained available in Asheville from WalMart and Home Depot, and Mercy Urgent Care is available to fit personal respirators.
Ironically, what we need now is another rain to help wash the flood mud back into the soil. Yet, we also need enough rain to carry the residual muck off paved surfaces and into storm drains—an essential but complex solution to this pollution.
In this moment of warmth and wind, remember: the silver lining may be in the skies, but down below, the dust could be harmful. Equip yourself and stay safe.
Thank you for alerting us to this. I wish I had done a lot more fishing last summer now that we can’t fish.
Great information