Friday FAQ: Why Do I See More Earwigs and Millipedes After Storms?

When heavy rain rolls through Dallas–Fort Worth, many homeowners notice more earwigs and millipedes crawling across patios, driveways, and even sneaking indoors. But why does this happen?

Moisture and Saturated Soil

Both earwigs and millipedes thrive in damp environments, living under mulch, leaves, and soil. After storms, their natural hiding places become waterlogged, forcing them to the surface in search of drier ground.

Seeking Shelter Indoors

Once they’ve been pushed out of the soil, these pests often make their way toward the nearest dry, dark place, which can unfortunately be your home. Cracks around doors, windows, and the foundation make easy entry points.

Seasonal Patterns

Fall storms often overlap with cooler temperatures, which naturally drive pests toward warmth and shelter. Combined with rain, this creates the perfect conditions for earwigs and millipedes to become more visible.

Prevention Tips

• Seal gaps around doors, windows, and foundations

• Reduce excess mulch and leaf piles near your home

• Keep gutters and downspouts clear to reduce standing water

• Schedule regular pest control to create a protective barrier before pests move inside

At Paragon Pest Control, we know how frustrating it is when seasonal weather drives pests indoors. Our treatments target both the inside and outside of your home to keep earwigs, millipedes, and other moisture-loving pests away, no matter the forecast.