Warmer weather means mosquito season has begun in Massachusetts. Mosquitoes can force a cookout inside, make a walk or hike itchy and uncomfortable, and cut a pool party short. More than just a nuisance, mosquitoes can carry diseases like West Nile virus (WNV) and eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus. Both viruses can cause severe symptoms including death. Don’t worry, you can be prepared with our 2020 mosquito season prediction for Massachusetts.
Predicting Mosquito Season in Massachusetts
There are several factors we can use when predicting how bad the mosquitoes will be this year, but the most important are temperature and rainfall. Mosquitoes prefer temperatures over 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Places that stay above 50 degrees Fahrenheit year round are ideal, but anywhere with warm spring and summer months, like Massachusetts, can have a mosquito problem. Increased rainfall typically means an increase in standing water. Since mosquitoes breed in standing water, an increase in standing water means the possibility of more mosquitoes.
So, will mosquitoes be bad this year?
The answer is, for Massachusetts, mosquito season will probably be worse than average this year. The National Weather Service has predicted that starting in April, temperatures in Massachusetts will average above 50 degrees. They have also predicted that temperatures will stay above 50 degrees until mid to late October, meaning that mosquito season in Massachusetts will span nearly seven months. They also predict significant rainfall during that time period, making April to mid-October prime mosquito season in Massachusetts.
How you can be prepared
While it may seem like outdoor season in Massachusetts is far off, the reality is that it’s just around the corner. It is important to start preparing your yard for mosquito season so you can enjoy your favorite activities itch-free. Here are some measures you can take to make sure mosquitoes aren’t bugging you:
- Regularly empty ponds, bird baths, fountains, buckets, kids toys and anything else that may gather water.
- Drill holes in tire swings, trash cans and recycle bins so stagnant water cannot accumulate.
- Cut grass and shrubs short – adult mosquitoes gather to rest in shady areas.
- Clean out gutters to avoid standing water.
- Repair leaky outdoor faucets.
- Let Mosquito Joe be your second line of defense by getting a barrier treatment that protects your yard from mosquitoes, ticks and fleas
While these are just predictions, it is better to take precautions and schedule your mosquito service now. Mosquito Joe of Walpole-Waltham is here to make outside fun again for you and your family by protecting you from mosquitoes, ticks and fleas. Give us a call today or request a free quote at https://walpole-waltham.mosquitojoe.com/.
