Warm, wet weather brings more mosquitoes

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP)– The hot and humid weather has brought more mosquito activity to Massachusetts.

Mosquito activity thrives in this type of weather and rain this week could make the situation worse.

Rain provides the perfect environment for mosquito breeding. They only need about 1 tablespoon of still water to breed over a two week period. Natasha Wright with Braman Pest Control explained to 22News how these conditions promote insect activity.

“So the hotter it is the faster they develop so nice and warm,” said Wright. “Maybe that lifecycle takes 10 days instead of 14 days also with all this rain you’re getting a lot of that puddling if it were really hot and dry, you wouldn’t have quite as many mosquitoes.”

Other insects like ticks also thrive in warm, wet environments.

The best way to protect yourself from mosquitoes is with topical insect repellants containing DEET and wearing long sleeved shirts and long pants. Also, removing standing water on your property will reduce the places where insects can breed.

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