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Have you ever stepped outside after a rainstorm and noticed a swarm of pests? They’re everywhere, from the grass and patio outside your house, to finding their way inside your house and buzzing around. You could have sworn your house wasn’t this bug infested before the rain, so what gives?

There is actually a very evident reason why there suddenly seems to be an increase in the bug population after it rains. Knowing this will help you better understand the phenomena and make you better prepared to handle rainy weather bug problems.

What do bugs do when it rains?

When it rains, water enters the ground through cracks and holes in the soil. The soil is where insects like ants and cockroaches, and creepy-crawlies like worms live. When their homes get filled with rain water, these creatures have nowhere else to go except for the ground. They climb up out of the holes in the ground to save themselves from drowning and will likely go back inside once the rainwater dries—if they survive that is. This is why the bug population suddenly seems to multiply tenfold after a rainstorm. In reality, it hasn’t multiplied; you just see them now that they’ve come out of hiding.

Rain and Bug Problems

Mosquitoes

Stagnant water—a common sight to see in areas with poor drainage systems—provides mosquitoes the perfect breeding ground. Mosquitoes thrive in wet weather, and lay eggs in standing water, which can lay dormant for weeks until the rain moistens them enough to hatch. Mosquito larvae can reach adulthood in as little as a week.

To prevent mosquito populations from taking over, do a thorough assessment of your property after a rainstorm to see if rainwater has collected anywhere. Drain out this water and ensure your drainage systems are in perfect working condition.

Termites

Due to the rain, wood can absorb water and become damaged. This water dampened wood is a favorite snack of termites. You may see an increase in termite populations following a rainstorm, especially in areas where wooden structures have become waterlogged.

Spotting rotting wood and hiring a pest exterminator to prevent termite infestations may be your best chance at solving this problem.

Bees and Butterflies

It is not just the pests that are seen in abundance following a shower. Rain increases the moisture content in plants, which forms nectar, a food source for pollinating insects like bees and butterflies. While these bugs are beneficial for your plants, you may also see an increase in plant-damaging insects like snails and slugs.

Ants

The peskiest kinds of pests, these tiny critters can squeeze their way through tight spaces and find their way inside the house when their colonies get flooded. They seem to be everywhere! In your food, crawling up your leg, and can even make their way up your bed!

Sealing your windows, doors and getting professional ant extermination can help reduce chances of an ant infestation in your house.

Ensure your house against bugs this rainy season

If you’ve noticed more bugs around the house following a shower, your house may be in need of pest extermination services. Xterminator Pest Control provides professional pest control services all over Columbus, OH, and will take care of all your critter prevention needs. Whether it’s a termite infestation you’re experiencing or a sudden increase in ant populations, Xterminator are the ones to call!