Storms & Pests: How Savannah’s Weather Can Unleash Infestations
Severe weather is a fact of life in Savannah, with its mix of coastal storms, heavy rains, and the occasional hurricane. While these storms can cause visible damage to homes and property, what you might not realize is that they also create the perfect conditions for pest infestations. From the way water accumulates to structural vulnerabilities after a storm, pest control issues often spike following severe weather events.
Flooding and Water Accumulation Attract Pests
One of the primary reasons pest problems surge after storms is standing water. Heavy rains and flooding create puddles, clogged drains, and other areas where water sits, which attracts insects like mosquitoes, ants, and termites. Mosquitoes, in particular, breed in stagnant water, making your yard or basement an ideal spot for them to multiply after a storm. Termites are drawn to damp wood, which can become more abundant after a storm, especially if any wooden structures around your home become soaked or damaged.
Structural Damage Welcomes Pests Inside
High winds and torrential rains can damage your home’s structure, creating easy entry points for pests. Loose shingles, cracks in the foundation, or damaged screens and windows become an open invitation for pests like rodents, cockroaches, and ants. Once inside, these pests seek shelter and food, and their population can grow rapidly if left unchecked.
High Humidity After a Storm
Savannah's high humidity levels already make it a hot spot for certain pests, but after a storm, that humidity spikes, creating an even more attractive environment for pests like cockroaches, silverfish, and fleas. These insects thrive in moist, warm conditions, and without proper pest control, they can quickly invade your home.
Landscape Changes Create New Habitats
Severe weather often brings down trees, scatters debris, and disrupts the landscape around your home. These changes create new hiding places for pests, particularly rodents and insects. Fallen branches, leaves, and excess vegetation are prime areas for pests to hide and nest, which is why it's important to clear debris quickly after a storm to avoid a sudden infestation.
How to Protect Your Home from Post-Storm Pests
The best way to protect your home from pest problems after a storm is to act quickly. Inspect your home for structural damage, remove standing water, and clean up any debris around your property. Ensuring that windows and doors are properly sealed can also prevent pests from getting inside.
However, even with the best preventive measures, pest infestations can still occur after severe weather. That’s why it’s important to contact a professional pest control company like Yates-Astro Termite & Pest Control. We can inspect your home, identify any existing or potential pest problems, and offer tailored solutions to keep your property pest-free.