People in Altamonte Springs experience regular storms. They expect thunderstorms, heavy rains, and strong winds during wet season. These storms bring much-needed water to the landscape, but they can also send pests into your home. Flooded nests, soaked soil, and shifting ground force insects to search for dry places, which can be your home. Once inside, bugs look for shelter, warmth, and food. Thus, a temporary visit can become a long-term stay. That is why homeowners ensure they have a pest control company in Altamonte Springs to call whenever they have bug issues. Many of them have ongoing business with Avata Pest Control, a pest control service provider based in Clermont. The company services several places in Central Florida, including Altamonte Springs. How the company deals with bugs depends on the species and the severity of the issue. 

Why Bugs Come Indoors During Storms

Insects and small critters escape the chaos outside when the rain pours and the wind picks up. Many pests that live in the ground get flushed out of their homes by floodwaters. Also, mosquitoes and gnats are pushed around by strong winds and enter homes through some openings. Here are reasons bugs seek shelter indoors during storms:

• Soaked nests or burrows. Insects need dry places to survive and may infiltrate your home. 
• Temperature drops. Some bugs move inside to stay warm when it gets cold outside. 
• Pressure changes. Ants and termites sense storms and respond by relocating. 
• Food shortages. Washed-out outdoor food sources send pests searching elsewhere.

Florida’s unpredictable weather allows for these situations to happen frequently. Sadly, local bugs have learned that homes make excellent hiding spots.

Common Pests That Invade During Storms

Some pests may move indoors during or right after a storm. Some may appear immediately, while others may show up days or weeks later. Below are bugs that can be driven by storms in Altamonte Springs. 

• Ants. Heavy rain floods underground ant colonies, forcing ants to move quickly. Their trails can be seen along walls, windows, or countertops.
• Roaches. These pests can easily find tiny cracks and gaps to slip through. They often enter through drains, under doors, or through attic vents.
• Spiders. Spiders don’t usually come inside for food. But they will seek dry and dark corners to wait out the rain.
• Earwigs and silverfish. These moisture-loving bugs flee soggy soil and often end up in bathrooms, basements, or laundry rooms.
• Rodents. Rats and mice also move indoors when storms flood their nests. They may chew through small openings or climb through roof gaps.
• Mosquitoes. Leftover standing water after a storm offers the best spots for mosquitoes to lay eggs. 

How Storms Create Entry Points for Pests

Storms drive pests toward your home. Also, they can damage your property and make it easier for pests to get inside. Wind and rain can loosen roof tiles, break window seals, and create cracks in siding or foundations.

Fallen tree limbs or debris may break screens or leave gaps near windows and doors. Heavy rains might also wash soil away from your home’s base, exposing areas that pests can crawl through.

What You Can Do to Keep Bugs Out

Below are steps you can take to protect your home from storm-driven pests:

• Seal up cracks and gaps. Check around doors, windows, and foundation edges for any small openings. Caulk or seal these as soon as possible.
• Install or repair screens. Make sure window and door screens are in good shape and fit tightly. This keeps flying insects out.
• Keep doors closed. Do not leave doors open during storms. Bugs can get inside during the chaos. 
• Clear gutters and drains. Blocked gutters lead to standing water, which attracts mosquitoes and other pests.
• Move debris away from the home. Piles of wet leaves, wood, or branches near the house can be hiding spots for pests after a storm.
• Dry out indoor moisture. Use fans or dehumidifiers if water gets inside. Damp basements or crawlspaces can attract unwanted guests.