With the Atlantic Hurricane Season in full swing and South Florida humidity at record highs, outdoor pests are bound to come out and play. Most local pests are affected by an influx of water. For example, mosquitoes consider pools of water a breeding ground, while ant habitats can be threatened by severe moisture. Regardless, rainfall can in fact activate the movement of pests throughout your property.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes thrive on warm, wet weather. During the summer when rainfall is more common and temperatures rise, mosquitoes repopulate by laying eggs in standing pools of water. Within weeks those eggs will have hatched, and swarms will grow. With so many documented species breeding, it is only natural that the mosquito population seems excessive during peak months.
Mosquitoes will be attracted to the humid environment, and the weather will energize these pests. Rainfall may encourage them to explore other parts of the property, including the indoor areas.
Ants
Conversely, intense rain showers can destroy underground ant communities. Water seeps into the cracks and crevices ants create to navigate through their habitat. This encourages ant colonies to seek shelter above ground. Ants will not return underground until the rain stops and until their habitats can be recovered. Until then, ants will seek refuge in the nearest dry area, which may very well be inside your South Florida home.
Chinch Bugs
Although chinch bugs prefer warm, dry weather, previously laid eggs with continue to thrive even if the weather changes. After the rain subsides, these eggs will hatch and infest your property.
Lawn Treatment
Investing in a specialized pesticide treatment for your yard will decrease your chances of dealing with unwanted bug infestations after continuous rainfall. Not only will professional lawn fertilization services and lawn pesticide treatments be sustained over the duration of rain showers, but their benefits will shine through once the storm passes.
Do not let South Florida rainfall negatively affect your lawn’s health. For more information on how Manning Pest Control can treat your South Florida lawn with specialized care, contact our team of experts for an estimate.