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The Conversation USA

The Conversation USA

After a disaster, contaminated floodwater can pose a threat for months to come

  • Written by Timothy B. Erickson, Faculty in Medical Toxicology, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard University
imageWhat's in the water?AP Photo/David J. Phillip

In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, reporters warned of a “stew of toxic chemicals, sewage, debris and waste” in Houston’s floodwaters.

It isn’t just Harvey. Hurricanes Irma and Maria and other floods and storms heighten the risks for contamination, environmental hazards and dis...

Read more: After a disaster, contaminated floodwater can pose a threat for months to come

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