How Rainy Weather Affects Pest Activity, and What to Do About It

When the rain starts falling, you might not be the only one seeking shelter indoors. Many common household pests become more active during rainy weather, and without proper preparation, your home could become their refuge.

Let’s take a closer look at why pests love wet weather — and what you can do to keep them outside where they belong.

Why Rain Drives Pests Indoors

Rain changes the behavior of insects and rodents in a few key ways:

• Flooded nests: Ants, roaches, and other insects may flee their waterlogged homes
• Shelter-seeking: Mice, rats, and spiders often head inside to find dry ground
• Moisture attraction: Damp areas become ideal breeding grounds for insects like mosquitoes, termites, and silverfish

What seems like a peaceful rainstorm can actually trigger a mini migration of pests right into your basement, walls, or attic.

Common Pests After Rainstorms

Here are a few of the most common invaders that show up after (or during) wet weather:

Ants

Ants will often evacuate flooded colonies and look for shelter in kitchens and bathrooms. They’re also attracted to sugary food residue left out indoors.

Cockroaches

Roaches thrive in moisture-rich environments, especially around drains and pipes. Heavy rain can flush them out of sewers and into homes.

Rodents

Rain can drive rats and mice indoors, where they look for dry nesting spots and easy access to food.

Mosquitoes

Standing water left by rain creates breeding sites for mosquitoes. Even a clogged gutter or planter tray can be enough.

How to Pest-Proof Your Home During Rainy Weather

1. Seal Entry Points

• Caulk gaps around doors and windows
• Install door sweeps and repair torn screens
• Check for cracks in foundations or siding

2. Control Moisture

• Use dehumidifiers in basements and crawl spaces
• Fix leaky pipes or appliances promptly
• Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent water pooling near the foundation

3. Eliminate Outdoor Breeding Grounds

• Dump standing water from buckets, tires, and flower pots
• Keep firewood elevated and away from the house
• Trim back vegetation that touches the home’s exterior

4. Schedule Preventative Pest Control

Even if you don’t currently see pests, rainy season is one of the best times to have an exterminator provide preventative pest treatments. A licensed technician can apply safe, weather-resistant products to create a barrier against incoming insects.

Final Thoughts

Rainy weather doesn’t just bring green lawns — it can also bring unwanted visitors indoors. By taking simple steps to seal up your home and reduce moisture, you’ll make it much less inviting for pests. If you're still seeing pests or sick of worrying about them sneaking in when the weather shifts, contact Midwestern Termite & Pest Control for recurring pest control services. And if they’ve already invaded, our one-time pest treatments are designed to eliminate the problem quickly and effectively.