Health Indicator Report of Climate Change: Extreme Weather Events

In Utah, long-term rainfall, rapid spring snowmelt, dam breaks, and flash flooding are the four primary ways floods occur [4]. No matter how it occurs, flooding can be extremely dangerous to the health of Utah citizens. In terms of climate change, the data regarding how climate change may affect flood frequency is minimal. The EPA reports that the number of heavy rainfall occurrences has increased and these occurrences lead to increased flooding events. Yet, the EPA recognizes that this is not happening in all areas [5]. Whether it is an abundance of snowmelt runoff, a heavy thunderstorm, or dam failure, floods can negatively affect public health in a number of ways. One of the primary concerns is contaminated drinking water. Floods can move massive amounts of debris and compromise sewage systems, which can contaminate the drinking water supply. Waterborne diseases such as giardia are transmitted through the consumption of contaminated water (polluted with fecal matter) and can cause debility and even death. Stagnant flood waters can become a breeding ground for vector-borne diseases, like West Nile virus, that could impact individuals who are displaced by a flood. Severe floods can knock over power lines and damage homes, allowing the release of hazardous chemicals into the community [6]. Other health concerns include drowning and injuries directly related to flooding.

Notes

Cost reported in U.S. dollars.

Data Source

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Climatic Data Center

Definition

Extreme weather events, for the purpose of this Indicator Report, are classified as severe, unusual, or unseasonal weather events. This Indicator Report contains the following variables: 1. Cost due to flood damage 2. Deaths and injuries from floods 3. Number of flood events by type 4. Acreage burned due to wildfires 5. Total number of wildfires

Numerator

This Indicator Report contains the following variables: 1. Cost due to flood damage (property vs. crop damage) 2. Number of Deaths and injuries from floods 3. Number of flood events by type 4. Total acreage burned due to wildfires 5. Total number of wildfires

Denominator

Not Applicable.

What Is Being Done?

The Utah Department of Health (UDOH) Bureau of Emergency Medical Services and Preparedness is in operation to coordinate local, state, and federal agencies in assisting health care systems with emergency preparedness and how to respond when a disaster strikes. If a flood or any other type of disaster were to occur, UDOH has implemented a 24-hour statewide support line to assist public health professionals and health care providers in supplying aid to the community. At the federal level, the CDC has a web page dedicated to educating the public on how to prepare for a flood and what should be done after a flood. Topics include water safety, sanitation and hygiene, mold, and precautions to take post-flooding. Flood information from the CDC can be accessed at www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/floods. Since a variety of agencies handle wildfire response in Utah, public health's role is primarily educational. The CDC has a web page dedicated to how to protect yourself during a fire and what to do after a fire has occurred. How to limit smoke exposure, protecting your home, and treatment for burn victims are some of the topics discussed. Access to wildfire education can be obtained at www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/wildfires.