Your Well & Septic Systems May Need Attention Even If Everything Looks Fine
Once the storm passes and the cleanup begins, it is important not to overlook your well or septic system. Even if your water appears normal and everything seems to be working, hidden damage or contamination may still exist underground or within either system.
Flooding, hurricanes, tornadoes, severe storms, and even earthquakes can affect:
💧 Water quality
🔧 Pump systems
⚡ Electrical components
🚰 Pressure tanks and underground pipes
🪨 Well casings and seals
🚽 Septic systems and drain fields
Septic systems can be especially vulnerable after storms when soils become saturated or flooding occurs, which may reduce their ability to properly treat wastewater and increase the risk of backups or system stress. Sometimes the signs are obvious, but other times problems may not appear until days later.
After Flooding
Floodwater can carry bacteria, chemicals, sewage, fuel, debris, and sediment that may enter your well system and contaminate groundwater.
If flooding occurred near your well:
❌ Do not drink the water until the system has been inspected and tested
❌ Do not turn on flooded electrical equipment; there is risk of shock
❌ Do not assume clear water is safe water
If floodwater has reached the well area, contact a licensed well contractor as soon as possible.
If your septic system was affected by flooding:
❌ Avoid using heavy water loads such as laundry or long showers until the system recovers
❌ Do not pump the septic tank while the ground is still saturated
❌ Watch for sewage odors, slow drains, or wet areas over the drain field
Contact a licensed septic professional if you have backups or standing water.
After Tornadoes or Severe Storms
Strong winds, lightning strikes, fallen trees, flying debris, and power surges can all damage well equipment.
Watch for warning signs such as:
⚠️ Sudden drops in water pressure
⚠️ Cloudy, muddy, or sandy water
⚠️ Air sputtering from faucets
⚠️ Exposed wiring or a damaged wellhead
⚠️ Pump issues after power outages
Septic systems can also be impacted if heavy rain or debris affects drain fields or if power outages disrupt connected components. Slower drains or unusual odors may be signs that the system is under strain.
Contact your licensed well and septic professionals immediately if you have any concerns about your systems.
After Earthquakes
Earthquakes and ground movement can crack well casings, shift underground pipes, and disturb groundwater conditions, even when no surface damage is visible.
The wellcare® Hotline has received calls from homeowners experiencing well issues up to two years after an earthquake occurred. Changes underground can sometimes take time to affect water quality or well performance.
If significant seismic activity occurs in your area, consider having your well system professionally inspected before returning to normal use, especially if you notice changes in water pressure, sediment, or water clarity.
Likewise, septic systems may also be affected by shifting soils or pipe movement, so it is important to watch for changes in drainage or signs of system stress. Contact a licensed septic professional before returning the system to normal use if you notice backups, slow drains, odors, or standing water.
👉 Yes, we may sound like a broken record, but we cannot stress this enough. Do not attempt repairs on your own. Private well and septic systems can pose serious safety risks, especially after flooding or damage from natural disasters, and all repairs should be handled by a licensed professional.
For additional guidance and resources, visit our dedicated Emergencies web page.
The wellcare® Hotline can also help! Our friendly staff members are available to answer your questions and provide you with any information you need to maintain a safe water supply and wastewater system. Contact us by calling 888-395-1033 or chat with us live at wellcarehotline.org.