A hotter, wetter South is becoming a breeding ground for mold

Grist

by Katie Myers

February 25, 2026

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In Asheville, North Carolina, a growing issue of mold infestation is emerging due to a combination of aging infrastructure and the impacts of climate change. Regina, a nurse living in an older apartment complex, has faced persistent mold problems since her dishwasher flooded her unit, worsened by Hurricane Helene. The storm exacerbated existing water damage, leading to widespread mold growth that affects many residents, especially vulnerable groups like the elderly and families with young children. The Evergreen Ridge Apartments, nearly a century old, suffer from chronic issues like leaky pipes and water intrusion, which have been compounded by increased rainfall and humidity from climate change. The complex's outdated design and poor maintenance leave it susceptible to mold growth, creating a challenging environment for residents. Many tenants attribute the problem to

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Originally published on Grist on 2/25/2026