5 Common Plumbing Issues After a Storm (and How to Cope)
When a big storm rolls through, most of us worry about things like fallen trees, roof leaks and power outages. But there’s another area that often gets overlooked − your plumbing.
Storms can quietly cause all sorts of problems behind the scenes, especially if heavy rain or flooding is involved. From clogged drains to burst pipes, your plumbing system takes a hit more often than you might think.
The worst part? These issues might not show up right away. That’s why it’s important to know what to look for once the weather clears.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through five of the most common plumbing problems that can pop up after a storm − and what you should do about them. It’s all about catching problems early before they turn into expensive repairs.
1. Blocked Drains and Gutters
After a storm, one of the first plumbing issues you might notice is blocked drains and gutters. Heavy rain often carries leaves, twigs, dirt, and other debris straight into your gutters and stormwater drains.
When that debris builds up, it stops water from flowing properly, leading to backups, overflows and even water damage around your home.
Blocked gutters can also cause water to pool around the foundation of your house, which may lead to leaks or structural damage over time. Stormwater drains, especially older ones, can become overwhelmed and clogged quickly, especially if they haven’t been cleaned recently.
You might spot signs like slow drainage, pooling water or an unpleasant smell around your outdoor drains. If you see water spilling over the edge of your gutters, that’s a clear sign they’re blocked.
The best way to prevent this? Regular maintenance. Clean out your gutters and drains before storm season and check them again afterward. And if the blockage is too severe, it’s smart to call in a professional plumber for help.
2. Burst or Damaged Pipes
Storms can put serious stress on your plumbing, especially when there’s flooding or sudden shifts in temperature. One of the more serious issues that can occur is burst or damaged pipes.
When water seeps into the ground, it can cause the soil to shift – sometimes putting pressure on underground pipes until they crack or burst.
Here’s what to watch for:
- Unexplained water puddles – Pools of water in your yard or under your home can indicate a leak underground.
- Drop in water pressure – If your taps are suddenly weaker than usual, it could mean a pipe has been compromised.
- Increased water bills – A sudden spike in your bill often points to a hidden leak.
- Strange sounds – Hissing or bubbling noises inside the walls could mean a pipe is leaking behind the scenes.
After a storm, it’s a good idea to inspect around your home for any of these signs. If you suspect a damaged pipe, don’t wait – it’s best to call a professional plumber before the issue gets worse.
3. Sewer Backups
Sewer backups are one of the nastier plumbing problems that can crop up after a storm. When there’s heavy rainfall, the local sewer system can quickly become overwhelmed.
Excess water has nowhere to go, so it can start to back up through your home’s plumbing. That means sewage could come bubbling up through your toilets, sinks, or floor drains − definitely not something you want to deal with.
Aside from the awful smell and mess, sewer backups pose serious health risks. The contaminated water can spread bacteria and viruses, making your home unsafe if not cleaned up properly.
Common signs include gurgling drains, slow-flushing toilets, or water backing up in your lowest drains. If you spot any of these after a storm, don’t ignore them.
To help prevent this issue, you can install a backwater valve, which helps stop sewage from flowing the wrong way into your home. And if a backup does happen, it’s best to call an emergency plumber straight away. The sooner it’s handled, the safer − and cleaner − your home will be.
4. Water Heater Malfunctions
Your water heater might not be the first thing you think about after a storm, but it can definitely take a hit – especially if your area has experienced flooding or power outages.
Storm-related water heater problems can affect both gas and electric units, so it’s worth giving yours a check once the skies clear.
Common hot water system issues after a storm include:
- No hot water – If the power went out or the unit was exposed to water, the heating element may have failed.
- Discoloured or smelly water – Floodwater can introduce contaminants into the tank, affecting water quality.
- Pilot light won’t stay lit – For gas models, moisture or wind can extinguish the flame and keep it from reigniting.
- Leaking around the base – Water pooling underneath the unit could mean internal damage or a cracked tank.
If your water heater has been exposed to floodwater, it’s important not to turn it back on until it’s been inspected. Water and electricity – or gas – don’t mix. A licensed plumber can tell you whether it’s safe to repair or needs replacing.
5. Contaminated Water Supply
Storms and flooding can do more than just mess with your plumbing − they can also impact the quality of your water.
After heavy rain or a major storm, there’s a risk that floodwater or runoff can seep into cracked or damaged pipes. When this happens, it can contaminate your water supply with dirt, chemicals, or even harmful bacteria.
You might not notice it right away, but signs of contaminated water include strange smells, discolouration or an odd taste coming from your taps. In some cases, the water might look perfectly fine but still be unsafe to drink.
It’s especially important to be cautious if your area has experienced flooding, as stormwater can carry all sorts of pollutants. If you have any doubts about your water quality, stop using it for drinking, cooking, or bathing, and contact your water provider or a licensed plumber.
To stay safe, consider installing a water filtration system and always get your plumbing checked after a severe storm. Clean, safe water is something you should never have to second-guess.
What to Do After a Storm
Once the storm has passed and it’s safe to go outside, it’s a good idea to do a quick plumbing check around your home. Storms can cause damage you might not notice right away, so acting early can save you from bigger headaches down the line.
Here’s what to do:
- Inspect outdoor drains and gutters – Clear away any debris to help water flow freely and prevent blockages.
- Check for pooling water – Water gathering near your home’s foundation or in the yard could signal a leak or drainage issue.
- Listen for unusual sounds – Hissing, bubbling, or gurgling from your pipes can be a sign something’s wrong.
- Test water pressure and temperature – If you notice weak pressure or no hot water, your system may have been affected.
- Look (and sniff) for signs of sewage – Any foul smells or backup in drains could point to a sewer problem.
If anything seems off, it’s best to call a licensed plumber. A professional can spot hidden issues and make sure your plumbing is safe and working properly.
In the Wake of Wild Weather
Storms can do more than just rattle windows – they can cause some serious plumbing problems too.
From blocked drains to damaged pipes and even sewer backups, your home’s plumbing system takes a hit during wild weather. That’s why it’s so important to check everything once the storm has passed.
A quick inspection can help you catch small issues before they turn into costly repairs. And if you notice anything strange – like strange smells, water pooling or a sudden lack of hot water – it’s always a good idea to call in a professional plumber.
They’ll make sure everything is running safely and smoothly. After all, your plumbing plays a huge role in keeping your home comfortable, clean and functional – especially after a storm has passed through.
Please note: This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See Cyber Plumbers’ Terms & Conditions here.
FAQs About Plumbing Issues After a Storm
Do you have any questions about plumbing issues after a storm? If so, we’ve got answers to the most commonly asked questions right here.
It’s best to check your plumbing as soon as it’s safe to do so. Look for signs like water pooling, strange smells, low water pressure, or slow drains. Even if everything seems fine at first, hidden damage can show up later – so keep an eye on things in the days following the storm.
Yes, floodwater can cause major problems. It can shift soil, damage underground pipes, and even contaminate your water supply if it seeps into cracks. If any part of your plumbing system has been submerged, it’s safest to have a licensed plumber inspect it before using it again.
Only if it hasn’t been damaged or flooded. If your water heater was exposed to water or lost power during the storm, don’t switch it back on until it’s been checked. Using a damaged unit could be dangerous and might cause further issues.
