In this post, we’ll cover:
- Why storms lead to more pests
- The most common pests you might see after a storm
- Signs that pests are moving in
- What you should do right after a storm
- Why professional pest control matters after storms
Why Storms Equal More Pests
So, why do storms cause more pest problems? There are a few main reasons:
First, storms bring lots of rain. That extra moisture can cause flooding, standing water, and soggy soil around your home. Many pests love damp environments — it gives them the water they need to survive. Your usually dry yard suddenly becomes a perfect place for pests to settle.
Next, the heavy rain can flood their nests and burrows. When their homes get flooded, pests have no choice but to look for dry, safe shelter — and your house often fits the bill. If outdoor areas where they usually live are soaked, they’ll move inside to find a new place to nest.
Storms also bring strong winds, which can damage your roof shingles and siding. These breaks create new cracks and gaps — easy entry points for pests. And you don’t need big holes for pests to sneak inside: even a crack the size of a dime is enough for rodents and insects to get in.
Common Pests You Might See After a Summer Storm
Storms can shake things up for pests, causing some of them to show up where you don’t want them. Here are a few you might notice more of after inclement weather:
- Ants: When their nests flood, ants often head indoors to find drier spots.
- Cockroaches: They love moisture and can slip inside through cracks near plumbing or around your foundation.
- Termites: These wood-destroying insects love wood softened by water and thrive in humid conditions, making storm-damaged areas ideal for them.
- Mosquitoes: Standing water left behind by storms is a perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes, so you might see more buzzing around.
- Rodents: With their usual shelters disturbed, mice and rats look for food and safety inside your home.
- Spiders: They tend to follow their prey indoors, so if other insects move in, spiders often aren’t far behind.
Any of these pests could move into your home or hang out around your yard after a storm.
Signs Storm-Driven Pests Are Moving In
Have pests made your home their new shelter? Look for these signs after a storm:
- Sudden pest sightings near doors, windows, or baseboards
- Mud tubes along foundation walls
- Droppings in garages, basements, or storage areas
- Increased nighttime activity from roaches or rodents
- Holes or damage to food packaging
- Nesting materials behind appliances or in closets
- Screens with holes or tears that could let pests inside
If you spot any of these, it’s time to act quickly.
What You Should Do Right After a Storm
Taking some simple steps after a storm can help keep pests from moving in:
- Dry out problem areas quickly using fans and dehumidifiers
- Check your siding, roof, and foundation for new cracks or gaps, and seal them
- Remove standing water from gutters, planters, tarps, and other places
- Clean up organic debris like leaves and branches that can hide pests
Why Professional Pest Control Matters Post-Storm
While these DIY steps help, professional pest control offers the best protection, especially after storms. Weather can stir up hidden infestations that are easy to miss on your own.
At got bugs? Termite & Pest Solutions, our licensed pest control pros know North Atlanta’s weather and pest challenges inside and out. We offer inspection, prevention, and treatment services to keep your home pest-free before, during, and after storm season.
Our services include:
Don’t wait for pests to take over. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help protect your home and family!
