Florida is known for its beautiful beaches, lively cities, and hurricanes! Unfortunately, hurricanes can bring in an influx of certain pest problems that can cause significant damage and be a nuisance. We breakdown the common pest problems that you could see after a major storm and how to prevent them.
Common Pests After a Hurricane
The most common pests you could see after a hurricane include:
Mosquitoes: Standing water left behind by the storm will become a breeding ground for these pests. Items that hold water are a huge attractant to these pests, including toys, overturned trash lids, bird baths, flowerpot saucers, and more.
Cockroaches: Flooded areas are an ideal living environment for these pests to inhabit as they prefer damp climates and areas. Likewise, once they invade, it can be difficult to control them as they reproduce at a rapid pace.
Termites: Flooding and moisture can weaken the structure of homes, making them more susceptible to termite infestations. Termites will cause significant wood damage and destroy the structural integrity of your home by eating it from the inside out.
Rodents: These wildlife creatures will seek out damaged or available areas to seek shelter from flooding. Rodents, such as rats, carry many diseases and can cause damage to your home, including chewed electrical wires and destroyed insulation.
Preventing Pests Before a Hurricane
Taking precautions before a hurricane or storm arrives is the best way to prevent pests from invading your home. Check out our top pest prevention tips:
Keep your gutters clear of debris and standing water
Place wood debris and firewood away from your house and secure.
Keep your home clutter-free by removing any old newspapers, magazines, and cardboard boxes.
Eliminate standing water around your home by checking for any leaky faucets, pipes, sinks, and appliances.
Remove any items from your yard that can collect water, such as toys, buckets, old tires, tarps, etc.
Seal up any cracks and holes outside of your home, including the areas where utility and pipes enter.
Ensure your vents are screened and any gaps around your windows and doors are sealed.
Store firewood at least 20 feet away from your home and elevated it at least 5 inches off the ground.
If you’ve seen an increase in pest activity after a storm, it could be time to reach out to your local pest control company for a thorough inspection and treatment plan.
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