Toronto Rain Fuels Extended Mosquito Season

Toronto's mosquito season is unexpectedly extending later into the autumn, primarily driven by significant rainfall received over the past week. A substantial storm on September 2nd inundated parts of the Greater Toronto Area, followed by additional rain on Wednesday, September 10th. This moisture has created ideal conditions for mosquito breeding.

Experts attribute the surge to an 'explosion' of floodwater mosquitoes. Dormant eggs, activated by the recent widespread flooding, are hatching into active mosquitoes. Unlike typical seasons, this year's cooler summer temperatures have also played a role. Mosquitoes thrive in humid, cooler conditions, which reduces their risk of desiccation and allows them to remain active for longer periods.

Homeowners are advised to eliminate standing water sources like buckets and bird baths, clear roof gutters, and maintain short grass and trimmed shrubs. These measures help reduce breeding grounds. Mosquito activity is expected to decline sharply once Toronto experiences consistent freezing temperatures, likely within the next few weeks.