The Virginia Department of Health reminds people to take precautions to avoid flooded areas and to be aware of potential health risks in the aftermath of Friday’s heavy rains. Officials say the torrential stoms can increase the risk of animal waste and the potential release of inadequately treated wastewater in rivers, lakes and streams, which can pose risks to human health and safety. Illnesses from contaminated water are gastrointestinal related and contact with contaminated water has the potential to cause upper respiratory and skin infections.