Generally, rain is welcomed during the summer for a variety of reasons. For most people these reasons do not include an increased number of bugs and insects in or around their home. Because bugs and insects thrive in humid environments, rain affects their behavior. Summer precipitation provides ideal conditions for boosting insect activity, allowing them to multiply. The rain creates a water source for pests around which they can thrive and wreak havoc for humans
Cockroaches
It is common for American and Brown-Banded cockroaches to seek indoor shelter from the rain. Cockroaches prefer to be warm and dry; who can blame them? Once they make their way into your home, American cockroaches like to hide in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. The Brown-Banded cockroach prefers to hang out on ceilings, in attics, or around appliances where they find warmth. Both species of cockroaches normally roam at night searching for food but can also be seen moving around during the day. These unwelcome pests have been known to carry and spread harmful bacteria and protozoa which has the potential to cause gastroenteritis and diarrhea, a definite threat to humans. When found indoors they can also trigger allergies and asthma.
Mosquitos
Along with cockroaches, the mosquito population surges after heavy rains or flooding. These annoying insects are also a danger to humans. It is a well-known fact that mosquitos can carry yellow fever, malaria, and other fatal diseases. Not only are they dangerous; they can simply make being outside in your own backyard quite unpleasant. Summer rains often bring milder temperatures, but having mosquitos buzzing around keeps you from getting outside and enjoying them.
Fire Ants
During extreme rain fall and flooding, you may also notice more fire ant mounds than usual. As their underground tunnels fill with water, fire ants are driven above ground where they will then build their mounds. Don’t count on the water itself to get rid of these pests. Fire ants are clever enough to cling together and form a raft that floats on the surface of the water. They will then climb onto the first object they encounter, like a tree, and be saved from drowning. With team effort, the fire ant is quite resilient, and the heavy rainfall is an easy obstacle to overcome. Lucky for them, but not so much for home owners. No one wants fire ants in their yard. If you’ve ever accidentally stepped into a fire ant mound, you know their stings can be extremely painful and have the potential to cause serious harm to those who are allergic.
Pest Control After Heavy Rains
Major rain fall and heavy flooding can cause many problems, increased populations of insects being one. As a preventative measure, carefully remove any standing water sources around your home including flower pots, old tires, or anything that can hold water for extended periods of time. Then call in the professionals. Let McCarthy Pest and Termite Control help you get rid of those unwanted post-rainfall pests that can possibly harm and will certainly annoy you!
