Post-Hurricane Pest Problems: What Florida Homeowners Need to Know

Post-Hurricane Pest Problems: What Florida Homeowners Need to Know

By Westfall’s Lawn and Pest Control

Hurricane season in Florida brings more than just strong winds and heavy rain, it also creates the perfect conditions for unwanted pests to invade your home and yard. At Westfall’s Lawn and Pest Control, we’ve seen time and again how quickly pest problems can escalate after a storm. Whether you’re searching for pest control near me or looking for safe DIY solutions, understanding post-hurricane pest behavior is the first step to protecting your property.

Flooding Drives Ants, Roaches, and Rodents Indoors

When heavy rains and flooding occur, pests like ants, cockroaches, and rodents are forced out of their usual habitats. Saturated soil and rising water levels drive them to seek dry, safe shelter, often inside your home.

• Ants: Fire ants, in particular, form floating colonies and relocate quickly. Once they find an entry point, they can infest walls, attics, and kitchens.
• Roaches: Flooded storm drains and sewers push cockroaches into homes and garages in search of food and shelter.
• Rodents: Rats and mice will enter attics, crawl spaces, and garages, where they can cause damage and spread disease.

A trusted exterminator or pest control service can assess the situation, eliminate active infestations, and help prevent re-entry.

Mosquito Populations Spike After Standing Water

One of the most common post-hurricane complaints we hear is about mosquitoes. Standing water left behind in gutters, planters, birdbaths, and low-lying areas becomes a breeding ground. In just a few days, mosquito eggs hatch into biting adults that can carry diseases like West Nile virus and dengue fever.

Professional pesticide control service treatments target breeding sites and adult mosquitoes, reducing the risk of bites and disease transmission. While some DIY pest control measures, like emptying water containers can help, they’re often not enough after major flooding.

Safe Cleanup Tips

Before you start cleaning up after a hurricane, remember that storm debris can be hiding places for pests. Here are a few safe cleanup practices:

1. Wear protective gear: gloves, long sleeves, and boots to avoid bites and contact with contaminated water.
2. Remove debris promptly: especially piles of leaves, branches, and yard waste where pests can nest.
3. Seal cracks and gaps: around doors, windows, and siding to prevent pest entry.
4. Dispose of spoiled food: quickly to avoid attracting flies, roaches, and rodents.

For certain pests like termites disturbed by flooding it’s best to call a termite control to inspect for hidden damage.

When to Call a Professional

While some homeowners turn to do it yourself pest control, post-hurricane infestations often require professional intervention. At Westfall’s Lawn and Pest Control, our trained technicians have the experience, tools, and safe treatments to handle even the toughest storm-related pest problems.

Here’s when you should contact a professional pest control company right away:

• You notice large ant colonies or swarms indoors.
• Cockroaches are appearing during the day (a sign of a severe infestation).
• You hear scratching noises in walls or ceilings; possible rodent activity.
• Mosquito activity is high despite DIY efforts.
• You suspect termite damage or see mud tubes along your home’s foundation.

A reputable pest control service will not only treat the current infestation but also implement preventive measures, so you’re better protected for the rest of hurricane season.

Why Choose Westfall’s Lawn and Pest Control

As a trusted Florida-based pest control company, we know the unique challenges homeowners face after a hurricane. Our pest control services cover everything from general pest control and termite control to mosquito reduction and rodent removal. We provide fast, reliable, and safe solutions that protect your family, home, and yard year-round.

Whether you need a one-time exterminator service or ongoing maintenance, Westfall’s is here to help you control pests quickly and effectively.

Don’t wait for pests to take over after the storm. Contact Westfall’s Lawn and Pest Control today to schedule your inspection and customized treatment plan. Let’s keep your Florida home pest-free no matter what hurricane season brings.