By admin 
TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – With monsoon storms in the forecast, you may notice more bugs and rodents showing up around your home—and sometimes inside it. Exterminators say storm-driven humidity can draw out pests like flies and mosquitoes looking for standing water in puddles and debris-filled gutters, which can become breeding grounds. Heavy rain and gusty winds can also flood or destroy insect and rodent habitats, forcing them to move to higher, drier places.
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Arizona Pest Control Inspector Supervisor Jon Urias says termites are especially common after heavy rain. “Termites will swarm after a heavy rain… those are what we call the alates… and they will essentially eventually start colonizing after the rain,” Urias said.
Other pests that may pop up after storms include spiders and scorpions, which come out for moisture and to hunt for food. Ants may rush indoors when nests flood, and American cockroaches can even come up through plumbing into bathrooms and kitchen sinks. Many homeowners also report more rat activity after storms, as rodents hunker down during the rain and then emerge looking for food—sometimes entering sheds, storage areas, and homes.
How to keep pests out before the next storm
- Seal entry points around doors and windows; replace worn rubber door stoppers
- Eliminate standing water near your home to prevent mosquito breeding
- Clear debris around the house and clean gutters
- Store food properly so flies and ants can’t access it
- Use a proper insecticide for the type of bug you want to target
- Use a UV light to help detect any scorpions roaming around your home at night
Experts also warn rodents often travel in groups—so if you see one, there may be more nearby. If you find pests inside your home, pest control professionals can inspect and help create an action plan.
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