Living in Baton Rouge means enjoying the warm weather, southern charm, and proximity to the Gulf, but it also means preparing for hurricane season each year. In our region, hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with peak activity occurring between mid-August and late October, when ocean temperatures are their warmest.
While most homeowners focus on securing roofs, windows, and emergency supplies, one area often overlooked is pest control in Baton Rouge. Severe storms and flooding can drive insects and rodents indoors, creating health risks and property damage at the worst possible time.
By planning ahead, you can reduce the chance of infestations and make your home less attractive to unwanted guests when bad weather strikes. Learn more on how storms affect pest activity and what you can do to protect your home.
How Hurricanes Drive Pests Indoors
When floodwaters rise, rodents like rats and mice abandon their burrows to seek dry ground. Homes become prime targets for shelter, especially if there are gaps around foundations, vents, or rooflines. Once inside, rodents can damage wiring, contaminate food, and spread disease like hantavirus, leptospirosis, or salmonellosis.
Flooding also disrupts the habitats of ants, cockroaches, and mosquitoes. Fire ants, for example, form floating colonies to survive and often settle near or inside structures after a storm. Cockroaches are notorious for seeking refuge in kitchens, basements, and crawl spaces when their outdoor hiding spots are destroyed.
Steps Homeowners Can Take
Seal Entry Points Before Storm Season
Inspect your home’s foundation, doors, and windows for cracks or gaps that pests could exploit. Use caulk, weatherstripping, or mesh screens to seal openings. Don’t forget vents, chimneys, and rooflines, as rodents are excellent climbers.
Protect Against Standing Water
After a storm, stagnant water becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Keep gutters clear, check drainage around your property, and empty containers like buckets, planters, or birdbaths that collect rainwater.
Secure Food and Waste
Pests are drawn to food sources, especially when storms disrupt their normal habitats. Store food in sealed containers and ensure trash is secured with tight-fitting lids. If power outages threaten refrigerated items, dispose of spoiled food quickly to avoid attracting insects.
Schedule a Pre-Season Inspection
Professional pest control experts can identify risks you may overlook, such as vulnerable crawl spaces or evidence of early infestations. By addressing these issues before hurricane season peaks, you’ll be better protected when storms roll through.
Get Ahead of Hurricane Season with Proactive Pest Control in Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge’s humid climate already supports high levels of pest activity. Add flooding, structural damage, and disrupted pest habitats from hurricanes, and the risk of infestation skyrockets. Preparing your home now offers protection against storms, as well as your family’s health and your property’s long-term value.
At Arceneaux Pest Management Service, we specialize in pest control in Baton Rouge, with solutions tailored to the challenges of hurricane season. From sealing entry points to long-term pest prevention, our team can help safeguard your home before, during, and after the storm. Contact our pest control experts today at 225-791-9911 to schedule a pre-season pest inspection and protect your home this hurricane season.