What is the best strategy for controlling mosquito populations during a heavy rainstorm?

Promptly inspecting and treating any new breeding sites that form during a heavy rainstorm is crucial for effective mosquito control. Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, which can accumulate rapidly during and after heavy rain. By addressing these new breeding sites immediately, it helps to reduce the mosquito population before they have a chance to mature and become capable of biting.

Taking action during and immediately after the rain maximizes the effectiveness of control measures, as it prevents the establishment of new mosquito populations that may arise from the abundance of standing water. This proactive approach is essential, as waiting for the rain to stop could lead to a significant increase in mosquito numbers, complicating control efforts later on. While aerial spraying and public education are valuable components of integrated mosquito management, they may not be as immediately effective in the face of an acute increase in breeding sites following heavy rain. Therefore, the prompt inspection and treatment of new breeding areas is the best strategy to minimize mosquito populations.