Ann Arbor Times

Extreme rainfall events in Texas have been found to disproportionately affect communities of color by increasing E. coli concentrations in recreational water bodies, according to a study led by the University of Michigan. The research highlights the uneven distribution of E. coli exposure following heavy storms, with significant impacts observed among Black and Latino communities.

"E. coli is the leading cause of water quality impairments in the United States, and exposure to this pollution is not evenly distributed," said Xiaofeng Liu, lead author and postdoctoral researcher at the U-M School for Environment and Sustainability. "We’re also seeing that extreme precipitation has a disproportionate effect on E. coli pollution."

The study utilized data from 2001 to 2021, examining E.coli levels alongside climate, environmental, and socioeconomic factors across Texas. It identified higher concentrations of E. coli in northern and eastern regions with predominantly Black populations during winter rains. Similarly, predominantly Latino communities in southern and western Texas saw increased E. coli levels after intense September storms.

"This is a complicated issue," Liu noted regarding the seasonal variations and geographical differences in rainfall impact.

The research aims to inform local governments and environmental agencies about potential policy developments to address these disparities. "This can inform local governments and environmental agencies and help develop targeted policies and targeted water management practices to help these impacted communities," Liu added.

A related report by Runzi Wang from the University of California, Davis found that economically disadvantaged communities also tend to reside near waters with higher E. coli concentrations.

While no direct correlation between income level and extreme rainfall impacts was observed, Liu mentioned that lower-income areas might face increased rainfall intensity in the future due to climate variability.

Texas was chosen for this study due to its significant bacterial pollution issues but robust monitoring systems allowed for method validation alongside useful analysis. The researchers plan to apply their framework elsewhere in the U.S., aiming to connect surface water quality with social factors effectively.

"With this study, we wanted to demonstrate our framework to connect surface water quality with social factors," Liu stated.