Pest Association Warns of Potential Termite Infestations Following Flooding
The North Carolina Pest Management Association (NCPMA) is urging homeowners to be aware of potential pest hazards following flooding from Hurricane Florence. Due to the flooding and high amounts of rainfall, North Carolinians may start to see an increase in the amount of pests including termites in and around their homes.
According to the North Carolina State University Entomology Department, flooding from storms can disrupt termite colonies by moving and eroding soil around homes, overfilling or flooding already installed termite bait systems and contaminating baits.
“Property owners should watch for areas where flooding eroded soil away from their house's foundation or piled soil and debris up against the house. That flooding may have disrupted any termite treatment that may have been protecting the house,” said Michael Waldvogel, Extension Specialist and Extension Associate Professor of Entomology at North Carolina State University. “As homeowners plan repairs to their houses, they should also contact a pest management professional and their insurance company for consultations to help handle any underlying termite issues.”
A colony of Subterranean Termites feeds 24 hours a day and can chew through any wood or paper product including wood, flooring and wallpaper. Termite infestations often go undetected until there is already damage to a structure.
Signs of termite infestation include mud tubes on or near the home’s foundation or swarmer termites in or near a property.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by Hurricane Florence. As an association, we are urging homeowners to be aware of the signs of termite damage to your home so you can prevent further damage,” said Bruce Roberts, NCPMA President. “If you see signs of a termite infestation or suspect one in your home, we urge you to contact your local pest management professional.”
To find a pest management professional by location, visit www.ncpestmanagement.org.