The Post-Hurricane Termite Invasion of Tampa Bay

Recent rainfall totals may have re-ignited new termite colonies

The phrase “When it rains, it pours” took on a new, more sinister meaning for Tampa Bay residents in 2024, as a series of devastating hurricanes—Debby, Helene, and Milton—brought not only historic flooding but also a creeping, silent threat: an unprecedented surge in termite activity. The combination of saturated soil and water-damaged homes created a perfect storm for these destructive pests, and their presence has continued to be a major concern well into 2025.

While termites are notorious for thriving in damp, muddy environments, the sheer scale of the 2024 hurricane season was a game-changer. Hurricane Debby, in particular, delivered a massive blow to the region. According to reports from WTSP.com, the storm contributed to torrential rainfall, with some areas in the Tampa Bay region receiving over a foot of rain. This created widespread flooding, turning entire neighborhoods into prime habitats for termites. Following this, Hurricane Milton contributed an additional 18.31 inches of rain to areas like St. Petersburg, a rainfall event so extreme it was deemed a 1-in-1,000-year occurrence.

In the aftermath of these storms, flooded properties became like an open invitation to termites. The water-damaged structures, once solid and secure, were transformed into an all-you-can-eat buffet of soggy wood. Our technicians, performing inspections on these compromised properties, reported a significant increase in termite presence, with an early and alarming development of new colonies being observed as early as February 2025.

Although the early part of 2025 was a drier period, the recent shift in weather patterns has brought a renewed concern. The typical summer heat and humidity, combined with recent substantial rainfall from thunderstorms and tropical activity, are now stirring up the termites that had been less active over the past few months. These conditions are exactly what subterranean termites need to thrive and swarm.

Recent data highlights this renewed moisture threat. Just in the last 24 hours, significant rainfall has been recorded across the region in the RainDrop app and website (raindrop.farm):

Town and Country: 1.70 inches

Jasmine Estates: 1.78 inches

Greater Northdale: 2.03 inches

Whitfield: 2.06 inches

Wesley Chapel: 2.12 inches

Tallevast Road: 2.26 inches

Parrish: 2.39 inches

Land O’Lakes: 2.51 inches

South of Lake Parrish: 2.52 inches

Fruitville: 2.58 inches

Lutz: 2.91 inches

These rainfall totals, though seemingly small compared to the historic hurricanes of 2024, are more than enough to reactivate termite colonies and provide them with the necessary moisture to expand and seek out new food sources.

For multifamily property managers, the lesson from the 2024 hurricanes and the subsequent termite boom is clear: the threat doesn’t end when the floodwaters recede. The long-term effects of water damage and sustained moisture create a high-risk environment for termite infestations. As we move through the rest of 2025, vigilance is key. Regular inspections and prompt action are essential to protect properties from the hidden, but highly destructive, consequences of a season defined by water.

WellTech Pest Solutions offers termite inspections, termite bonds and termite service plans for multifamily properties. WellTech provides both pest control and wildlife management services, too. Find out why WellTech professionals are experts in multifamily by contacting WellTech Pest.

May 13, 2025August 25, 2025

Termites Surge to an 87% Increase in Activity

2025 is Predicted to Be an Aggressive Year for Termites (Story Follow Up)

In February, our Associate Certified Entomologists (ACE) issued a warning that 2025 would be an aggressive year for termites in Tampa, and now their predictions are becoming a reality. WellTech Pest Solutions, LLC are witnessing a significant surge in termite activity, with an alarming 87% increase in Subterranean Termite infestations across the board. This is a serious issue, but there’s another layer to this concerning situation: the arrival of the Formosan Termite, Coptotermes formosanus, also known as the “Super Termite.”

The Threat of Subterranean Termites

Subterranean termites, while not as aggressive as Formosan termites, still cause billions of dollars in damage each year in the US. They live in underground colonies and build mud tubes to reach their food sources. These termites feed on cellulose, the main component of wood, and can damage a building’s structure over time. A mature subterranean termite colony can consist of hundreds of thousands to millions of workers. They can enter structures through cracks as small as 1/16th of an inch.

The Destructive Power of Formosan Termites

Formosan termites, often called “super termites,” are among the most destructive termite species globally. Their aggressive nature and the sheer size of their colonies make them particularly dangerous. A single Formosan colony can house millions of termites, allowing them to consume wood at an alarming rate. They chew through wood from the inside out, often leaving behind hollowed-out sections. They can also create nests above ground if they find enough moisture. Formosan termites were introduced to the US in the 1940s and have spread across the southern states. They are known to infest not only structures but also living trees, shrubs, utility poles, and even boats.

The consequences of this termite surge between both Subterraneans and Formosans are already being felt. We’ve observed a more than doubled rise in reported termite activity across our all of our Florida territories. This includes Greater Tampa, Orlando, Southwest Florida and approximately a 61% increase! Unfortunately, in most instances, this activity is only discovered after substantial damage has already taken place.

The University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) extension has provided an interactive map to show the historical paths of where each species have been recorded. While these may not have the data from this season, play close attention to the proximity of your multi-family residential dwellings.

Termite distribution in Florida (updated 10-1-2023) – Google My Maps

Protecting Your Multi-Family Property

Given the increasing termite threat, it’s crucial to take proactive measures to protect your property.

March 4, 2025August 25, 2025

Preparing for Termite Season

Spring is in the air, and unfortunately, so are termites! As we approach Termite Awareness Week, March 2nd-8th, 2025, it’s crucial for property managers and residents alike to understand the risks these pests pose. While the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) and the Professional Pest Management Alliance (PPMA) spearhead this vital initiative, WellTech Pest Solutions, LLC, Is equally committed to protecting Florida properties.

Termites can cause significant damage to multifamily housing, impacting property value and resident safety. Recognizing this, we’re dedicated to providing effective termite management solutions across Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando, and many more Florida counties. As active members of BAAA, AAGO, FCAA, and FPMA, we understand the unique needs of apartment communities.

Prevention is your first line of defense. Look for telltale signs: mud tubes along foundation walls, discarded wings near windows, and hollow-sounding wood. If you spot these, immediate action is essential. Don’t wait for extensive damage to occur.

During Termite Awareness Week, take the time to educate your residents. Share information on preventative measures and the importance of professional inspections. At WellTech Pest Solutions, we offer comprehensive termite inspections and tailored treatment plans to safeguard your investment. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and ensure your property remains termite-free. Let’s work together to protect your community.

Find out more about termites, navigate to the Termite Page.

#TermiteAwareness; #PestControl; #FloridaPests; #WellTechPestSolutions; #MultifamilyHousing; #PropertyManagement; #multifamilyResidentialPestControl

February 25, 2025August 25, 2025

2025 is Predicted to be an Aggressive Year for Termites in the Tampa area

Protect Residents and Properties from a Predicted Surge in Termites

WellTech Pest Solutions, LLC

February 25, 2025

The erratic weather patterns plaguing our region are creating a perfect storm for pest infestations, leading to significant property manager headaches. Across the board, we are experiencing higher-than-average temperatures juxtaposed with cooler, drying weather. This bouncing effect, while pleasant for shaking off winter chills, is profoundly unfavorable to our pest conditions. As temperatures rise, pests initiate their pre-emergence growth for the summer months. However, when the warmth that spurred their activity suddenly vanishes, they seek refuge. This is when our families find unwanted guests in their living space, escaping the sudden chills.

This unpredictable climate is particularly impacting multifamily living areas affected, where pest control becomes a complex, shared responsibility. The increase in pest activity is not just anecdotal; across the Bay, we’re seeing a startling 37% earlier-than-usual reporting of Drywood Termites, and an astonishing 24% higher Subterranean Termite infestation. Drywood Termites and Subterranean Termites are exceptionally aggressive this year, so it’s crucial to be vigilant and proactive in establishing a strong pest control defense.

The fluctuating temperatures create an environment where pests are constantly searching for stable conditions, leading them to invade homes, condominiums, and apartments. This heightened activity translates into more frequent resident complaints, increased maintenance costs, and potential structural damage. Property managers are facing the challenge of coordinating rapid and effective pest control measures to maintain resident satisfaction and protect their investments. Regular inspections, preventative treatments, and educating residents on pest prevention are essential components of a comprehensive pest management strategy during this challenging period.

WellTech Pest Solutions, LLC has nearly 40 years of pest and wildlife management experience and features a network of solutions designed exclusively for multifamily properties. WellTech controls pests through a preventative service program that saves you and your residents from pest breeding, growth and colonization. If there is ever an outbreak, our teams are mobilized and responsive.

Find out more about termites, navigate to the Termite Page.

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