St. Louisans are learning fast about the health consequences of tornado clean-up. Cuts and scratches from storm debris can lead to tetanus, and breathing air filled with particles of dust, dirt and harmful building materials can damage a person’s lungs.
Poll: St. Louisans hearing about link between tornados, breathing problems
In the last week, 54% of St. Louis adults surveyed had heard that “breathing problems can develop or worsen after tornados.” Only 34% of those surveyed the prior week had heard it. Nearly all respondents – 96% – who heard it in the last week believed it was true.
Old housing in St. Louis increases the risk
Among mid-sized U.S. cities, St. Louis ranks 2nd for having the largest proportion of homes built before 1940. Nearly 6 of 10 homes (59%) were built prior to the 1940s. Although older homes contribute historic charm to many neighborhoods, they are also more likely to have been built using materials that contain arsenic, lead, asbestos and fiberglass that are harmful to lungs.
How dangerous materials disperse in a tornado
It’s easy to see when large objects like branches, siding, and roofing materials are lifted into the air during a tornado. But tornados also fill the air with tiny particles you cannot see, some of which are toxic to humans. These particles can stay suspended in the air for days. Breathing in certain particles, such as asbestos, can cause lung damage.
Some St. Louisans still need to get the message
In the poll, younger St. Louisans (<50 years) were less likely to hear about breathing problems after a tornado than were those ages 50+ (45% vs. 68% awareness). Men were less likely to hear about it than women (43% vs. 57%), as were White vs Black respondents (48% vs. 62%).
Protecting St. Louisans as the clean-up continues
Even three weeks after the tornado, wearing an N95 mask during clean-up can reduce a person’s exposure to fine particles in the air. Please share the alerts below to help raise awareness.
Click here to view a printable PDF of the resources below.
About this week’s report
This week’s alert is based on a survey of 196 adult residents in St. Louis, MO, conducted from June 7-9, 2025. Explore these data and more at iHeardSTL.
Want to help spread the word? Download the graphics below to share about this topic.
Suggested caption:
Tornado cleanup can stir up dust and debris that harm your lungs, especially in cities with older homes like St. Louis. After May’s tornado, it’s a good time to remind neighbors that wearing a mask can help protect your health.
#iHeardSTL #STLRecovers #Tornado #LungSafety
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