In an absolutely terrifying video of a radar map, termites have been seen swarming what looks like half of Louisiana.
"It's not very typical that we see that type of feature in the evening," said Alek Krautmann, meteorologist for the National Weather Service. "We noticed it and figured out that it's very likely inset swarms."
The radar technology used by the National Weather Service can successfully identify biological scatters that are often flocks of birds, but this most recent report suggests that it was primarily termites and other insects swarming around New Orleans.
"A log of people in New Orleans are noticing termites," Krautmann said. Termite damage affects more than 600,000 houses in the U.S. and causes approximately $5 billion of repair and control costs every tear.
It's important -- especially during termite season -- to consult with a professional exterminator to handle pest control in your home, your backyard, and all around your property. Being proactive and preventing future damage from occurring can end up saving you thousands of dollars in termite damage. On average, homeowners who find serious termite damage will have to spend about $3,000 for repairs.
In New Orleans, termites seem to have been damaging properties on a week-to-week basis. "There were a few nights," Krautmann added, "about two weeks ago, where the bugs and termites were pretty active, but it hasn't been as bad lately."
Up until that giant swarm was picked up on the radar map, of course. "Apparently," Kruatmann said, "they're back."
The National Weather Service radar usually only picks up movements of much higher altitude: weather patterns, high-flying birds, planes, etc., but because New Orleans has been under such high-pressure weather conditions lately, the radar beams much closer to the ground.
If you want to protect your property for the future, hiring an exterminator before any termite issues become apparent may be your best bet. Bug guard can work sometimes, but you may need the highest treatment to guarantee to be insect-free.
Termites prefer to feed and hide in old logs, wooden decks, wood furniture, etc., but they also can lurk in other areas of the backyard. As they wait for their opportunity to feed, they will live in bushes, trees, and even in the backyard grass.
Termite damage is a serious problem. Contact a professional today if you are in need of assistance.