After a hurricane or storm, the focus is often on repairing extensive damage, mold growth remediation, and trying to regain a sense of normalcy. While devastation can be overwhelming, an often overlooked but common consequence is the sudden appearance of pests. With everything else on their plate, homeowners may not immediately think about the potential for unwanted pests, but it’s a reality that many find themselves navigating in the weeks after a major storm.
Why Are Insects More Prevalent Post-Hurricanes?
"In the wake of an “above average” hurricane season, we’re frequently seeing larger storms, heavier rains and stronger winds," highlights Emma Grace Crumbley, an Entomologist at Mosquito Squad Plus. "Heavy rain and home damage can rapidly lead to common pest issues as many insects tend to thrive in warm, wet weather and around high-moisture areas." Crumbley cautions that foundational damage from storms can lead to the perfect atmosphere for pests to invade the home and stay long-term.
How to Manage Mosquito Infestations
Storm or no storm, an area with excess moisture can become the perfect breeding ground for mosquitos. "Mosquito populations in particular tend to boom after heavy rain events with rainwater collected in containers or flooded areas around the home creating ideal breeding grounds," she notes. "After a hurricane or storm subsides, homeowners should take appropriate actions to get rid of any stagnant water in and around the home. This includes tipping out any containers in the yard that may be holding water, checking that plant pots aren’t overflowing, inspecting the yard for areas of flooding, and cleaning out gutters and downspouts." Furthermore, if storm drains near your house are blocked and prevent drainage of excess water, rake out debris. Chances are, you'll be able to get to it faster than your local municipality.
Take Steps to Control the Ant Population
"Ant infestations post-rainfall are caused when rainstorms lead to flooding and over-saturated soil, which can flush ants out of their nests and force them to seek shelter elsewhere – including in and around your home," warns Crumbley. In search of shelter and new and abundant food supplies, residential homes are often targeted. "To avoid inviting an unwanted ant colony inside, homeowners should check that any openings are sealed tight, patch cracks in crevices within the home’s walls and outdoor foundation and take a look around the lawn to inspect for any ant mounds that may have formed." If you notice signs of carpenter ants in your home, bait and manage the pests at the point of entry.
Prevent Further Destruction and Deter Termites
"Heavy rain and flood waters can damage wood foundations and the resulting high moisture levels can attract subterranean termites, who eat the wood supporting your home, and in turn, can result in significant damage to the house," cautions Crumbley.
"To prevent this, check any basements, crawl spaces, wooden ground flooring or decks to ensure that no stormwater has seeped or pooled in these areas. When inspecting the lowest levels of the home, homeowners should be on the lookout for moisture build-up, fungal growth from standing water damage, and wood rot — all can attract termites."
She adds, "Additionally, a common sign you may have a termite problem will be the presence of mud tubes (also called termite tubes). Checking for mud tubes on the ground levels, as well as any foundation cracks on floors and walls for other termite activity, can help to prevent a pest infestation or further home damage. If termites are suspected, it’s best to contact a local professional to inspect the home and develop a treatment plan."
If you suspect this is an issue that you can't handle on your own, it's best to call in the pest control professionals. They can help audit the situation, determine whether structural damage is imminent, and manage the pest population.
