Unusual Winter Weather Will Impact Spring and Summer Pest Populations

The National Pest Management Association reveals spring and summer
pest forecasts with its Bug Barometer

FAIRFAX, Va.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The
National Pest Management Association (NPMA) today released its
bi-annual Bug
Barometer, forecasting what to expect from pest populations in their
respective regions across the U.S. this spring and summer. From an
exceptionally warm December on the East Coast to unusual snowstorms on
the West Coast, and everything in between, NPMA’s Bug Barometer breaks
down how the wild winter climate ultimately generated early pest
activity for the majority of the country.

“The Bug Barometer is developed by our entomologists who examine recent
weather reports across the U.S. and analyze precipitation patterns to
determine the effect on the pest pressure index. Inconsistent weather
patterns can alter when, and even where, these pests become active, and
our barometer will help people be more prepared and can safeguard their
homes,” said Cindy Mannes, vice president of public affairs for the
NPMA. “Knowing what to expect for the season is especially important as
some springtime pests, such as ticks and mosquitoes can have a direct
impact on our health, especially with the threat of Lyme disease and
Zika virus becoming a heightened concern in recent months. And other
pests, including ants and termites can cause damage to our homes.”

According to the NPMA’s Bug Barometer, here’s the expected pest forecast
for each region of the U.S.:

Northeast: Starting off with an atypically dry December, the
Northeast closed out the month with much wetter and warmer weather than
usual with little snowfall. These conditions gave way to earlier pest
activity, creating expectations that ants, ticks and brown marmorated
stink bugs will arrive with the early thaw. A rainy spring may also
bring more mosquitoes.

Southeast: A rainier and even warmer winter than usual created
strong breeding grounds for mosquitoes that will continue to thrive.
Termite swarms and ants will emerge in their fullest force during the
hottest periods of spring and summer.

Midwest: Wetter than average weather combined with a
record-breaking warm December may jump-start ant and tick activity. This
is in addition to the premature mosquito population increase already
occurring.

Southwest: This region experienced an exceptionally warm December
and especially wet conditions with the exception of a dry Southern
Texas. A cooler, rainier spring may delay termite swarms, drive up
mosquito populations, and lead ants indoors. A drier summer could yield
an increase in tick populations.

Northwest & West Coast: Heavier rainfall, flooding and
snowfall swept this portion of the country during the winter months.
With slightly rainier than normal weather conditions predicted for the
upcoming seasons, larger mosquito populations are anticipated and ants
will move indoors.

For more information on NPMA’s Bug Barometer or to learn more about
protecting against common household pests, visit PestWorld.org.

The NPMA, a non-profit organization with more than 7,000 members, was
established in 1933 to support the pest management industry’s commitment
to the protection of public health, food and property. For more
information, visit PestWorld.org.

Contacts

Vault Communications, Inc.
Amanda Michelson, 610-455-2757
amichelson@vaultcommunications.com