You must have also seen the images and videos all over social media. Till now, Bangalore is all set the witness the wettest May in history. Yes, this year, Bangalore has witnessed unseasonal rain during May before the actual monsoon. It resulted in flood conditions in Bangalore. IMD stated that climate change is the reason behind the unseasonal rain. Flooding results in various problems and conditions for every resident. Besides, waterlogging for a long period can be a source of many health problems. But do you know about the hidden threat behind this is Indoor air quality in Bangalore?
Yes, floods can impact the indoor air quality (IAQ) of any area facing flood conditions. This blog is purpose to make you understand how flood affects the air quality of your area. Besides, you know how this indoor air quality impacts your health and how you can protect yourself in this condition with the best solutions available. So let us first start with knowing how floods impact indoor air quality in Bangalore.
What’s Happening in Bangalore?
According to the stats by the IMD (Indian Meteorological Department), Bengaluru city has recorded 290 mm (29 cm) of rain — 172 mm above normal from March 1 to May 19. It means the city’s annual total is 30cm till now, and it is said to be one-third of the 98 cm usually expected in a year. It resulted in waterlogging in different areas in the entire Bangalore.
Monsoon in Bangalore usually begins in early June, however, this year, the unseasonal rains started in May. It resulted in flood conditions in the city and the meteorologists linked that to climate change and shifting monsoon patterns. Now, let us know how flood-like conditions impact the indoor air quality in Bangalore.
How Does Flooding Impact The Indoor Air Quality?
Flooding introduces several mechanisms that degrade indoor air quality, particularly relevant given Bangalore’s recent weather patterns:
Mould Growth:
Research indicates that when floodwaters leave materials like walls, furniture, and carpets wet for more than 24-48 hours, mould can proliferate. Mould spores become airborne, posing respiratory risks. This is especially concerning in Bangalore, where high humidity post-flooding exacerbates the issue.
Introduction of Contaminants:
Floodwaters often carry bacteria, viruses, and chemicals from external sources, which can infiltrate homes and settle on surfaces, contributing to poor indoor air quality. This is a significant concern in urban areas like Bangalore, where industrial and vehicular pollutants may mix with floodwaters.
Increased Humidity:
Flooding raises indoor humidity, creating an environment conducive to biological contaminants like mould, mildew, and dust mites. Studies suggest that humidity levels above 60% can significantly worsen indoor air quality.
Dust and Debris: Flooding can stir up dust, dirt, and other particles, which can remain suspended in the air, exacerbating respiratory conditions, especially for those with asthma or allergies.
Chemical Off-Gassing:
Flood-damaged materials, such as carpets or furniture, may release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as they dry, further polluting the indoor air. This is particularly relevant in densely populated urban settings like Bangalore, where homes may contain synthetic materials prone to off-gassing.
The extent of Impact on Indoor Air Quality in Bangalore
The extent of impact depends on the duration of flooding, the materials affected, and the response time for drying and cleaning. For instance:
- If homes remain wet for over 48 hours, mould growth is almost certain, significantly degrading air quality.
- In areas with severe waterlogging, like those seen in the recent Bangalore floods, the risk is higher due to prolonged exposure to contaminants.
- Studies indicate that indoor air pollutant concentrations can increase during monsoons due to inadequate ventilation and higher humidity, particularly in urban settings.
Health Issues Residents May Face Due to Poor Indoor Air Quality:
Poor indoor air quality can lead to a range of health issues, particularly affecting vulnerable groups such as children, old age, and those with chronic respiratory conditions. The potential health impacts include:
- Respiratory Infections: Increased risk of colds, flu, and other infections due to mould and bacteria.
- Allergies: Symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes, triggered by allergens such as mould spores and dust.
- Asthma Exacerbation: Worsening asthma symptoms, including wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness, especially noted in areas with high indoor humidity.
- Irritation of Eyes, Nose, and Throat: Caused by exposure to irritants like mould, dust, and VOCs.
- Long-Term Health Risks: Prolonged exposure may contribute to chronic conditions like COPD and increase the risk of heart disease, as noted in studies on indoor air pollution.
- Skin Irritations: Mould and chemical residues in the air can irritate skin cells and cause allergies and other skin-related problems.
What Can You Do to Stay Safe?
To protect health and maintain good indoor air quality during and after the Bangalore flood, residents can take the following steps:
1. Properly Drying:
Use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows (if outdoor air quality is good) to dry wet areas quickly, preventing mould growth.
2. Clean and Disinfect:
Thoroughly clean and disinfect all surfaces that come into contact with floodwater, using EPA-approved disinfectants to kill mould and bacteria.
3. Remove Damaged Materials:
Discard items like waterlogged carpets, upholstery, and drywall that cannot be dried or cleaned, as they can harbour contaminants.
4. Control Humidity:
Keep indoor humidity below 60% using dehumidifiers, especially important during Bangalore’s humid monsoon season.
5. Use Air Purifiers:
Invest in high-quality air purifiers with HEPA filters to remove mould spores, bacteria, and other pollutants from the air, a recommended solution for current AQI levels.
6. Monitor Indoor Air Quality:
Use indoor air quality monitors to track levels of pollutants like PM2.5, PM10, CO2, and VOCs, enabling informed decisions on ventilation and purification.
7. Ventilation:
If outdoor air quality is good, open windows to improve air circulation, but during poor outdoor conditions, rely on air purifiers.
But which is the best indoor air quality monitor?
The market for indoor air quality monitors is wider than claimed to offer the utmost options. However, in situations like the Bangalore flood, you need the best solution that makes your indoor air quality better. For this, Prana Air is always known for offering top solutions in every condition. Here is the best indoor air quality monitor to use during a flood or waterlogging to protect yourself.
Cair+ is your indoor air security system that is not just an ordinary monitor. Because it monitors all your needs for better indoor air. As,
- Detect PM2.5, PM10, CO2, VOCs, HCHO, Temperature and humidity in real-time.
- Alert you to invisible threats inside your home
- Integrate with smart solutions for air purification and ventilation\
Early detection saves health. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear — let data guide your actions.
Prepare for the Monsoon — Before It Hits Harder
Bangalore’s current situation is a wake-up call. With more monsoon rains expected in the coming weeks, now is the time to protect your home’s indoor environment.
Because the air you breathe inside your home should never be more dangerous than the storm outside.
Ready to Take Control of Your Indoor Air Quality?
👉 Check out Prana Air’s smart IAQ monitors and breathe safer, cleaner air this monsoon.
