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Tennessee's Summer: Brace for Mosquito Mayhem!
8 Jun
Summary
- Wet weather followed by warm temperatures create ideal mosquito breeding conditions.
- Mosquito season in Tennessee now runs from March to October.
- West Nile virus is the primary mosquito-borne illness monitored in Tennessee.
As of 2026-06-08, Middle Tennessee is bracing for an insect-friendly summer. Weeks of rainfall have created ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes, with experts predicting a significant increase in insect populations.
The National Pest Management Association's Bug Barometer forecasts higher-than-average numbers of mosquitoes, flies, and ticks across the South. Accuweather also anticipates extreme mosquito conditions this week due to hot and rainy weather.
Tennessee's mosquito season, typically running from March to October, is also observed to be lengthening. A national study indicated an increase of 16 favorable mosquito days annually between 1979 and 2022, with the Southeast experiencing some of the longest seasons.
Entomologists note that even small amounts of standing water, such as in gutters or discarded bottle caps, can become breeding sites. Mosquitoes can mature from egg to adult in as little as five to seven days during warm weather.
Public health officials monitor West Nile virus as the primary mosquito-borne illness in Tennessee; Davidson County reported one case in the previous year. Experts advise using EPA-approved repellents, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding outdoor activities during dawn and dusk.
