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More mosquitoes on the way after heavy rains
Experts urge action on standing water as temperatures climb in Andalucía
Recent downpours across Andalucía, paired with warmer days, mean we're in for a busier mosquito season this year. Researchers like Jordi Figuerola from the Doñana Biological Station-CSIC warn that flooded fields, puddles and ditches create perfect breeding spots. "With the abundant rainfall and high temperatures, there will be more mosquitoes this season," Figuerola said on Monday.Places like the Lower Guadalquivir, La Janda in Cádiz and Málaga's coast face the biggest risks. There, species such as Culex pipiens and Culex perexiguus spread West Nile virus, while the invasive tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus) thrives in urban spots and loves biting people.
In Málaga, Zoology Professor Raimundo Real at the UMA notes how small puddles in gardens or plant pots speed things up. "With five to seven days of accumulated water, it can complete its cycle, depending on the temperature," he says.
Simple steps at home make a real difference. Empty saucers under pots, buckets or anything holding water. "If there is no standing water for five days, the tiger mosquito cannot complete its cycle," Real advises. Figuerola agrees, stressing prevention over random spraying. "Fumigating for the sake of fumigating is useless; you have to fumigate when there are mosquitoes." He urges Ayuntamientos to check plans now, target larvae hotspots and inspect abandoned properties where water builds up unchecked.
You might also be interested in: 5 garden plants that will keep mosquitos at bay
Seville and Huelva councils already have control programmes running early due to the rains. Málaga Ayuntamiento monitors traps monthly and stands ready at spots like the Guadalhorce river mouth. Regional health officials track mosquitoes year-round via traps, plus checks on people and animals.
Figuerola sums it up: "There are many places where they can reproduce." Empty those containers today, and report problem spots to your Ayuntamiento. Better safe before the buzzing starts in earnest.
>>> Follow our Andalusia Weather Watch Facebook group for more weather news or see our Weather & Climate page <<<
Image: Jimmy Chan/Pexels
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