Record Rainfall in Texas Results in Widespread Flooding and Property Damage

In late October, a low pressure system energized by the remnants of Hurricane Patricia brought up to 20 inches of rain to some parts of Texas. San Antonio broke its single-day rainfall record and the deluge was a major issue in many other cities and towns across the statewide. 

Severe flooding and the heavy downpour of rain has resulted in water damage to countless properties. These flooded homes and buildings, and those with leaking roofs, windows or siding, can develop mold problems in a short period of time if they are not quickly and properly dried.

“When a storm dumps 12 to 20 inches of rain on a residential or commercial building, it’s a good idea to check even out-of-sight locations for signs of water damage,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President, Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “That much rain in such a short period of time can overwhelm roofs and a building’s ability to drain the water away from the foundation. Attics, basements and crawlspaces are often highly susceptible to water damage and mold growth after these types of weather events.”   

Mold growing almost anywhere in a building can cause indoor air quality problems and health concerns for building occupants. When inhaled, some types of mold can cause disease in people with a weakened or suppressed immune system, trigger asthma in others and cause allergic reactions in many. 

Property owners and managers of older buildings are also cautioned to be on the lookout for asbestos-containing materials and lead-based paints that could become aerosolized during clean-up, demolition and repair activities.    

To help identify mold and other microbial contaminants, as well as lead-based paints and asbestos, EMSL Analytical has a laboratory in Houston that provides sampling supplies and testing services. EMSL also offers consumer-friendly indoor environmental test kits that can be obtained at www.EMSLTestKits.com.  

EMSL is hosting a free The Basics of Mold Sampling for IAQ Investigations webinar on Thursday, November 12th.  Click here  to register today. 

To learn more about water damage, mold, indoor air quality or other environmental, health and safety issues, please visit www.EMSL.com or email  info@EMSL.com . To contact the Houston laboratory, call (866) 318-3920.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc. EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental, indoor air quality, consumer product and materials testing services and products for professionals and the general public.  The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies. 

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

(1) 8563032503

Contact via E-mail