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.

July 10, 2025August 22, 2025

Four Fears Offers

SAVE on MULTIFAMILY WILDLIFE EXCLUSION and SPECIALTY SERVICES.

GET A 15 Percent Savings on any removal or exclusion!

Choose a removal or exclusion service from one of the “four fears” listed above: rats, bats, bees, or termites. Receive 15% off of your service! This offer is good for any one first-time service. Use promo code BEAGO for Apartment Association of Greater Orlando, promo code BETPA for Bay Area Apartment Association or promo code SWFAA for the Rent-Chella Trade Show. Offer expires October 31st, 2025.

RATS

The first of the four fears, these destructive rodents cause significant damage and health risks. They gnaw on wood, plastic, and electrical wires. They also carry diseases to humans through their droppings, urine, bites, or through parasites like fleas. They also have rapid reproduction and a small rat problem can escalate into a full-blown infestation, quickly.

BATS

The second of the four fears of multifamily residential nuisances actually is a benefit to a property. Florida is home of 13 native bat species, all of which are insectivores, and illegal to kill, harm, or harass. Bats feast on mosquitoes and other insects, consuming hundreds per night. They are adaptable to urban environments making them a nuisance for multifamily properties. WellTech follows Florida state guidelines on bat exclusions. Please click here for more information.

BEES

The third of the four fears of multifamily nuisances benefit Florida’s ecosystem and agriculture. Florida is home to over 300 native bee species. Honeybees are protected by Florida laws and federal guidelines. These bees do not become aggressive unless they are provoked. Honeybees and other bees sting when they feel threatened or a nest is disturbed. Africanized honeybees are even more aggressive and more sensitive to threats.

TERMITES

The fourth and final fear of multifamily isn’t just a nuisance. It is destructive. Florida hosts more than 20 native termites and is considered the “termite capital of the U.S.” Among the most destructive termites are the Formosan subterranean termite, the Asian subterranean termite and a variety of drywood termites. Termites are known to cause a continuous, substantial drain on property owners valuable investments due to ongoing, hidden damage.

GET A 15 Percent Savings on any removal or exclusion!

Choose a removal or exclusion service from one of the “four fears” listed above: rats, bats, bees, or termites. Receive 15% off of your service! This offer is good for any one first-time service. Use promo code BEAGO for Apartment Association of Greater Orlando or promo code BETPA for Bay Area Apartment Association. Offer expires October 31st, 2025.

WellTech Fear Factor Multifamily Game Show Deals

WellTech introduces Fear Factor to the First Coast Multifamily Game Show

Here’s Your Offer!

WellTech Pest Solutions, a multifamily residential pest control, termite and wildlife management company arrives to Jacksonville Florida Wednesday July 16th for the Multifamily Game Show. Introducing Fear Factor at booth 505 at the Jacksonville Fairgrounds beginning at 5:30pm. For three hours leasing managers, property managers and other multifamily service managers will have the opportunity to select between four containers featuring a rat, a termite, a bee and a bat. Stick your hand way inside to tell us what you have in your hands!

(Details coming soon…)

For participating in our contest, you have until August 30th to claim your offer.

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 18, 2025March 28, 2025

Detecting the Difference Between Ant and Termite Swarms

*An Alate, typically a reproductive ant (with wings) | Credit: Pexels | Egor Kamelev*

Distinguishing between termite and ant swarms is crucial for homeowners and property managers, especially in multifamily residential environments where pest infestations can quickly impact numerous units. While both termite and ant swarms are flying insects that emerge in large numbers during specific times of the year to reproduce, there are key differences that can help you identify the culprit and determine the appropriate course of action. Understanding these distinctions is a vital first step in effective pest management, an area where WellTech Pest Solutions excels.

Appearance: A Tale of Two Bodies and Wings

The physical characteristics of termite and ant swarms offer clear visual cues:

Termite Swarms: Typically appear pale or light-colored (though some species can be darker, even black) with soft, straight bodies that lack a defined waist. A primary distinguishing feature is their four wings, which are all approximately the same size and length, extending well beyond their body. Termite swarms have broad bodies and relatively small heads, resulting in a more uniform, somewhat rectangular or chunky shape.

Ant Swarms: Exhibit a more varied coloration, usually ranging from brown to black, and possess a distinctly narrow, segmented body with a pronounced pinched waist (petiole), giving them the characteristic hourglass figure. Their two pairs of wings are unequal in size, with the front pair being significantly larger than the hind pair. Ant swarms have a more defined head in proportion to their body size.

Swarming Habits: Timing and Purpose

The timing and reasons behind swarming also differ between these pests:

Termite Swarms: Commonly emerge during warm weather, primarily in the spring or early summer. Swarming often occurs after rainfall or on warm, humid days, signaling favorable conditions for establishing new colonies. Their sole purpose is to leave the mature colony, pair up, and find a suitable location with a wood source to establish a new termite settlement.

Ant Swarms: Also appear in warmer months, but they tend to prefer hotter, drier conditions for their swarms. Similar to termites, their goal is mating and establishing new colonies. However, ant swarms are often more organized and may involve distinct trails or gathering points, whereas termite swarms can appear more sudden and scattered.

Behavior and Location During Swarms

Observing where swarms are present and how they behave can provide further clues:

Termite Swarms: Given their wood-destroying nature, termite swarms are frequently observed in and around wooden structures. This includes areas near the foundation, around window and door frames, or even indoors if an infestation is present. You might also see them near decaying wood outdoors, such as tree stumps or fallen logs. A telltale sign of termites is finding discarded wings, as they shed them shortly after mating and landing.

Ant Swarms: Are more likely to be seen around soil, on the ground, or near established ant nests. Their swarming behavior may involve more active flying and landing as they search for mates. While they might occasionally be seen indoors, their presence isn’t as directly indicative of structural damage as termite swarms.

WellTech Pest Solutions: Your Partner in Pest Prevention and Control

Distinguishing between termite and ant swarms is a crucial first step, but accurate identification and effective management require professional expertise.

WellTech Pest Solutions understands the unique challenges of pest prevention, pest management, and pest control in all environments, with a particular focus on multifamily residential settings in Tampa, Florida.

For property managers and residents in multifamily communities, early detection and proactive measures are essential to prevent widespread infestations and costly repairs. WellTech Pest Solutions offers comprehensive pest prevention programs tailored to the specific needs of these environments, including:

Thorough inspections to identify potential entry points and conducive conditions for both termites and ants.
Preventative treatments designed to create barriers and deter pest infestations before they begin.
Education and recommendations for residents and property staff to help minimize pest attractants.

*Ant Colony. Credit: Pexels | Nikola Sivko*v

In the event of a suspected swarmer sighting, accurate identification is paramount for implementing the correct pest management strategy. WellTech Pest Solutions’ experienced technicians are highly trained in identifying various pests, including termite and ant swarms, and can quickly determine the nature of the infestation.

When pest control is necessary, WellTech Pest Solutions utilizes cutting-edge techniques and environmentally responsible products to effectively eliminate infestations while minimizing disruption to residents. Their expertise extends to both termite control, which may involve specialized treatments to protect wooden structures, and ant control, which focuses on eliminating colonies and preventing their return.

In conclusion, while both termite and ant swarms are indicators of reproductive activity, their distinct appearances, swarming behaviors, and locations offer valuable clues for identification. For reliable pest prevention, accurate identification, and effective pest control, especially in the complex environments of multifamily residential properties, trust the expertise of WellTech Pest Solutions in Tampa, Florida. Their proactive approach and comprehensive services are your best defense against unwanted pests.

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

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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