Hospital hit by Hurricane Milton gets system to grab water from air

A recent development at a children’s hospital that faced water scarcity in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton has drawn attention to the potential of using atmospheric water harvesting systems in disaster response scenarios. The hospital in question is now utilizing a device designed by Genesis Systems, a Florida-based company, which can extract drinking water directly from the air. This innovative technology relies on metal organic frameworks to capture moisture from the air, which is then converted into pure water through a heating process.

Atmospheric water harvesting systems have been gaining traction for their ability to function independently of traditional water infrastructure. These systems have been deployed in off-grid communities, areas with unreliable water sources, and even military operations. The flexibility and efficiency of such systems make them a valuable asset in disaster situations where access to clean water is compromised.

During the approach of Hurricane Milton, Jason Weida, the secretary of the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration, recognized the potential of utilizing Genesis Systems’ technology to address water supply challenges post-disaster. Following the hurricane’s impact, the atmospheric water harvesting system was swiftly deployed to Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, where water mains had been disrupted, posing a critical threat to patient care.

The system, capable of producing up to 2000 gallons of drinking water per day, was operationalized at the hospital with the support of a generator. This swift response not only ensured a reliable water supply for the hospital but also underscored the importance of redundancy in emergency preparedness. The system’s efficiency in harnessing water from the air, particularly in humid environments like Florida, makes it a promising solution for future disaster response efforts.

While atmospheric water harvesting systems offer a viable option for securing water supply during crises, challenges such as power dependency need to be addressed to enhance their effectiveness in disaster scenarios. Despite these limitations, experts view these systems as a valuable tool in ensuring access to clean water in the aftermath of natural disasters when traditional water sources may be compromised.