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As the global climate continues to reshape our environment, the attention understandably falls on rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and damage to biodiversity. However, one lesser-known consequence of climate change lies beneath our feet—literally. Scientists are beginning to uncover how shifting climate patterns may influence the behavior of radon, a naturally occurring radioactive gas and a leading cause of lung cancer.
Radon is a radioactive gas produced by the natural decay of uranium in the ground. It can seep into homes and buildings through cracks in foundations, gaps around pipes, joints, and other openings. It can then accumulate inside at dangerous levels, altering the DNA in our lungs. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that radon causes about 21,000 lung cancer deaths each year in the United States alone.
Weather and climate have a significant impact on radon levels, meaning that as the climate changes, our radon exposure also changes.
Climate change causes more frequent and intense rainfall, which saturates the soil and can increase the flow of radon gas into homes over time. On the other hand, extended droughts can dry out and crack the soil, opening new pathways for radon to rise to the surface and infiltrate buildings.
Warmer temperatures may also lead to increased use of air conditioning and more tightly sealed buildings to conserve energy. While this is great for energy efficiency, it also means radon has a harder time escaping.
Natural disasters also impact radon by altering the soil and the foundations of buildings. Even if there is no damage to the home's foundation, these increased disruptions can allow more radon to rise into the air above.
The potential for climate change to elevate radon exposure poses a serious public health challenge. Many areas that have not traditionally been considered high risk for radon could see rising levels, catching residents off guard and causing more lung cancer diagnoses. Without regular testing, homes in these newly affected regions may harbor dangerously high concentrations of radon for years without detection.
Even more, communities already burdened by climate-related stressors—such as heatwaves, flooding, and economic instability—may be the least equipped to respond to high radon levels.
While climate change requires widespread effort to combat, there are steps you can take to protect yourself from radon and radon-induced illnesses. All Utahns should test their homes for radon every two years, alternating between summer and winter. Click here to get a free test sent to your home from Utah Radon Services.
Additionally, it’s essential to discuss radon with your friends and family, especially since testing is simple and free. Most people don’t know their home has a high radon level until they receive a stage three or four lung cancer diagnosis. This outcome is largely preventable through broad public education, awareness, and regular testing.
