What is the effect of extreme weather on housing sanitation?

Extreme weather events such as floods, hurricanes, heavy snow, and heat waves can significantly affect housing sanitation by causing damage to structures and creating conditions that lead to sanitation challenges. For instance, flooding can inundate homes, leading to mold growth, contamination of drinking water sources, and structural damage that can compromise sanitary systems. Similarly, heavy rainfall can overwhelm drainage systems, while intense heat can exacerbate conditions around waste management, causing odors and attracting pests.

These weather events can also disrupt basic services like waste removal and sewage treatment, which are essential for maintaining sanitation standards. The result is often an increase in health risks due to the spread of pathogens and environmental health hazards. Therefore, understanding the impact of extreme weather is crucial for managing sanitation effectively and ensuring that housing remains safe and sanitary during such events.