Health Effects of Natural Disasters                                           

In 2023, the U.S. experienced 28 natural disasters that each caused at least $1 billion in damages. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, this was the largest number of billion-dollar natural disasters experienced in the U.S. over a single calendar year. The administration also states that the collective cost of these disasters is $92.9 billion. 

These massively expensive catastrophes have steadily increased over time. NOAA reports that billion-dollar disasters have accounted for a growing share of the overall costs of natural disasters in recent years, jumping from 75 percent between 1980 and 1999 to more than 85 percent in 2023. The number of weather-related natural disasters is expected to remain high as climate conditions become increasingly volatile.

The immediate effects of natural disasters are obvious, and the scope of devastation can be assessed within a short period of time. There are long-term implications, however, especially when it comes to health issues and damage to the health service system.

The Long-Term Health Effects of Natural Disasters 

Residual problems stemming from a natural disaster are the ones that will most often lead to long-term consequences. Most people are familiar with the immediate responses to natural disasters — measures aimed at containing the effects of the disaster itself. A variety of emergency interventions are needed to stabilize the population that was affected the most.

The final phase of recovery is the reconstruction phase, and it can last several months or even years.. During this phase, mental health issues stemming from the devastating occurrence become obvious. Issues such as anxiety and depression can stem from several points in this phase, such as the speed of recovery; the fluctuation of socioeconomic conditions in the aftermath of the disaster; and recurring reminders of the disaster, such as media coverage on the disaster’s anniversary.

Mental health problems rank among the most widespread long-term effects of natural disasters. The loss of loved ones, homes, and livelihoods can alter the lives of multiple individuals. Grief and shock are normal in the immediate aftermath of a natural disaster. When people fail to return to normalcy, however, mental health practitioners must deal with the lasting psychological impact of the disaster.

Hygienic problems and the loss of basic infrastructure, on the other hand, increase the risk of communicable diseases developing and spreading. Vaccination and the restoration of proper hygiene measures are the two most important ways in which such health hazards can be addressed and eradicated.

Research also suggests an increased risk of poisoning and various infections in the aftermath of a natural disaster. These issues include skin, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and zoonotic infections. The increase is caused by damage to infrastructure and sanitation systems that typically control the spread of infection-causing pathogens. Individuals who suffer from chronic medical conditions are particularly vulnerable to additional medical complications. 

Effects on the Health Service System 

Health service infrastructures can suffer significant damage during natural disasters and have prolonged effects after the disaster is contained. In addition to facilities being damaged, valuable equipment and medicines can be lost. iIssues that are not as obvious as damaged property may also emerge. 

For example, mold and bacteria can form and proliferate on structures and even equipment. This systemic impact can be further amplified in low- and middle-income countries and can shine a brighter spotlight on the struggles the countries may be facing in normal circumstances.

Social factors also contribute to problems with health services during and after natural disasters. Large populations usually leave the impacted area. As the residents depart, the incentives to rebuild the healthcare service system diminish. The resources for rebuilding the general community diminish, too—meaning the time needed to properly restore healthcare infrastructure will be extended. 

Not only is infrastructure recovery slow, but recovering human resources can be challenging, since many medical professionals eventually leave the disaster area. The work of nonprofit leadership and social work professionals can be instrumental in closing the gaps that may develop between the resources for rebuilding and the people who need them the most.

Recovery After a Disaster: Available Resources 

Communities and individuals dealing with the aftermath of a natural disaster can turn to several emergency and disaster preparedness programs that can help them get through a wide range of difficult situations. These resources can stem from federal, state, and local organizations and agencies. They can also concentrate on a specific type of disaster.

General Emergency and Disaster Preparedness Resources

• Ready.gov: This resource from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security demonstrates the importance of emergency preparedness by highlighting the difference a day can make between normal life and the onset of a natural disaster. Broken down by state, it outlines the main disaster risks for each region and includes links to local resources.
• Ready.gov/Kids: This resource helps families teach their children the importance of emergency and disaster preparedness.
• FEMA Regions, States and Territories: This resource from the Federal Emergency Management Agency provides information on local disaster recovery centers, maps, fact sheets, FEMA contacts, and other details by state. 
• Ready.gov/Kit: This resource from the Homeland Security Department outlines the basic items that all families should have in their disaster supply kits and includes information about how to stock, store, and maintain the kits.
• Ready.gov/Plan: Useful for any disaster, a family emergency plan is a valuable tool to have ready before you truly need it.
• NWS StormReady Program: This resource from the National Weather Service aims to help communities ensure that they are ready to safely handle a natural disaster.
• Basic Emergency Planning: This resource, a video course, teaches students and individuals how to effectively prepare for emergencies and develop quality plans for future emergencies.
• Financial Assistance After a Disaster: This resource will help you determine whether you qualify for federal financial assistance.
• Disaster Distress Helpline: This resource, managed by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, is a hotline (800-985-5990) that is available 24/7, year-round for people struggling with the emotional aftermath of surviving a natural disaster.

Hurricane Safety and Preparedness

• National Hurricane Center: This resource issues watches, warnings, and advisories about hurricanes and tropical storms.
• What to Do Before the Tropical Storm or Hurricane: This resource from the National Weather Service outlines the key steps to take in preparing for a hurricane.
• Ready.gov/Hurricanes: This resource teaches you how to prepare for a hurricane in the days and hours leading up to its arrival, as well as how to stay safe when it hits.
• FEMA Preparedness Community: Hurricane: This resource is a comprehensive guide that provides key information on what to do to stay safe before, during, and after a hurricane.
• Actions to Take When a Hurricane or Tropical Storm Threatens: This resource from the National Weather Service provides six key steps to take to ensure survival during a hurricane, whether you are ordered to evacuate or remain in place.
• NWS: After a Hurricane: This resource provides suggestions to ensure that you stay protected after a hurricane, even after the rain and wind have subsided.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: After a Hurricane: This resource teaches you how to avoid the potential health risks that may arise in the aftermath of a hurricane.

Flood Safety and Preparedness

• NWS: Flood Safety Tips and Resources: This resource outlines the difference between flood warnings and watches and offers helpful information on how to stay safe when the waters rise.
• Ready.gov/Floods: This resource teaches you what to do in the event of a flood warning in your area and how to stay safe.
• FloodSmart: This resource from the National Flood Insurance Program helps you determine whether you need flood insurance and how to ensure that your home or business is protected.
• FEMA Flood Map Service Center: This resource helps you understand the flood risk in your area.
• CDC: Floods and Your Safety: This resource includes information on floods, flood preparation, floodwater safety, and returning home.

Tornado Safety and Preparedness

• Ready.gov/Tornadoes: This resource includes information on how to recognize the signs of a tornado, as well as other preparedness, survival, and recovery tips for those facing a tornado.
• NWS: Tornado Safety: This resource outlines the steps necessary to safely prepare for and survive a tornado.
• CDC: This resource offers information on tornado preparation, survival, and recovery.
• Storm Prediction Center: This resource enables you to keep an eye on any potential tornadoes or severe thunderstorms in your area.
• Taking Shelter from the Storm: Building a Safe Room for Your Home or Small Business: This resource contains a downloadable PDF guide from FEMA on how to build a safe room that can help protect your family or employees from the extreme winds of a tornado.

Pursue a Career in Disaster Recovery as a Social Worker 

While much of the focus is understandably on the immediate effects of natural disasters, there could be profound and long-lasting consequences that can plague communities for years, particularly concerning the mental health of the affected population and the delivery of healthcare services. Social work professionals who specialize in disaster resilience must stay focused on this aspect of recovery. It is the only way for a holistic recovery from unspeakable damage can occur.

Tulane University’s Online Master of Social Work and Master of Science in Disaster Resilience Leadership dual degree program can help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to integrate this focus into your recovery strategies. Our unique dual program, the first of its kind, allows you to gain hands-on experience under the guidance of a faculty with a wealth of experience in rebuilding communities after disaster strikes, giving you the confidence you need to make a positive impact during negative times. Learn how we can prepare you for success.