Cleveland residents are no strangers to the challenges brought by lake-effect snow, a winter phenomenon caused by Lake Erie’s cold winds picking up moisture and dumping heavy snow across the region.

While the focus is often on shoveling driveways and navigating icy roads, there’s another hidden challenge to consider: how lake-effect snow impacts pest behavior.

This unique weather condition can create ideal circumstances for pests to invade homes in search of warmth and shelter. Here’s how lake-effect snow influences pest activity and what Cleveland homeowners can do to stay protected.

Why Lake-Effect Snow Encourages Pest Activity

1. Rapid Temperature Drops:
   Lake-effect snow typically follows a rapid drop in temperature, forcing pests like rodents and insects to seek immediate shelter indoors.
2. Snow Accumulation:
   Heavy snow creates a natural insulation barrier, which may lead pests to burrow closer to a home’s foundation. It can also block their usual outdoor habitats, making basements, crawl spaces, and attics particularly attractive.
3. Moisture Build-Up:
   Melting snow near the foundation of homes creates damp conditions, drawing pests like termites, centipedes, and silverfish that thrive in moisture.
4. Disrupted Food Sources:
   Snow cover limits access to food sources for outdoor pests like mice, squirrels, and raccoons, encouraging them to explore homes for sustenance.

How to Protect Your Home from Pests During Lake-Effect Snow

1. Seal Cracks and Gaps:
   Inspect your home’s exterior for cracks in the foundation, gaps around windows and doors, or holes in siding. Use caulk, steel wool, or weatherproof sealant to close these openings.
2. Clear Snow Away from the Foundation:
   Shovel snow away from your home’s foundation to prevent moisture buildup and block pests from tunneling close to the structure.
3. Maintain Proper Drainage:
   Ensure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris and direct water away from your home to prevent pooling near the foundation.
4. Install Chimney Caps and Vent Screens:
   These barriers help prevent larger pests like raccoons and squirrels from entering through your attic or crawl spaces.
5. Declutter Storage Areas:
   Keep basements, attics, and crawl spaces organized and clean. Use plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes to discourage nesting.
6. Trim Landscaping:
   Remove overhanging branches and shrubs close to your home, as these can serve as bridges for pests seeking entry.

When to Call a Professional

Even with the best preventative measures, lake-effect snow can create challenging pest problems. If you notice signs of an infestation, such as droppings, gnawed materials, or unusual noises, it’s time to call a pest control professional. Experts can assess your home, identify potential entry points, and implement effective solutions to keep pests out.

Stay Protected This Winter

Lake Erie’s lake-effect snow is a defining feature of Cleveland winters, but it doesn’t have to mean welcoming pests into your home. By understanding how this weather impacts pest behavior and taking proactive steps, you can keep your home warm, safe, and pest-free all season long.