A flash storage device includes flash storage units that are purged in response to a condition or command while allowing the flash storage device to be used subsequent to the purge. A flash controller interface receives a command for purging the flash storage device and provides a purge command to flash controllers in the flash storage device. Alternatively, the flash storage device detects a condition in response to which the flash controller interface provides a purge command to the flash controllers. Each flash controller independently erases a flash storage unit in response to receiving the purge command such that the flash storage units are erased substantially in parallel with each other. Subsequent to the purge, certain control data is reconstructed to allow subsequent use of the flash storage device.