Sacramento's Unexpected November Mosquito Surge: What's Behind It?

In Sacramento, November is usually a time for cool breezes and cozy sweaters, but this year, residents are facing an unexpected nuisance: a surge in mosquito activity. The usual suspects for this unwelcome invasion are weather patterns and the presence of standing water. The recent weather conditions have created a perfect storm for mosquitoes. Rain in October, followed by warmer temperatures, has left plenty of spots where mosquitoes can breed. Even small amounts of water, like what fits in a bottle cap, can become a breeding ground for invasive mosquito species. Adding to the problem, agricultural mosquitoes are moving into urban areas to escape the winter chill while crops are harvested. This means that different types of mosquitoes are contributing to the biting pressure. Despite the annoyance, there is some good news. The overall number of mosquitoes carrying the West Nile virus has decreased since the summer. As temperatures continue to drop, mosquito activity is expected to decline as well. Residents like Violet Marshall from Carmichael are feeling the impact. She says the mosquitoes are relentless, especially during outdoor activities like football games. Molly Willing from Sacramento has noticed mosquitoes swarming her home, even around wet paper towels. Mary Coughlin from South Natomas had a close encounter with mosquitoes while walking a short distance from her car to an office building. Experts suggest that mosquitoes are attracted to certain people more than others based on scent. To protect yourself, it's recommended to use mosquito repellent, wear long sleeves during peak mosquito hours, and eliminate any standing water around your home.