Editor’s note: In April 2022, Utah Governor Spencer Cox issued a state of emergency due to the extreme drought conditions of the Beehive State. At this time, the following information is not an accurate reflection of the state’s current conditions. We are following the drought condition and will update the article at a later time.
We’ve had a great winter here in Utah, with plenty of snow. The water forecast for the year is fabulous…so we should have a nice summer season. There’s just one problem with so much water. Keep reading to find out why you won’t like what some experts are saying about this summer…
With a super wet spring, Utah is in great shape for water this year. Recent rain and even snow showers have swollen the creeks and even created rare waterfalls at Gunlock State Park.
Trish Smith via Utah Nature Lovers Group/Facebook
All of this is great news for the state’s ski resorts, most of which have been able to stay open well into April, and also wonderful news for anyone who loves exploring Utah’s mountains all summer long.
August Benjamin/flickr
A wet spring isn’t great news all around, though. The folks at the Salt Lake City Mosquito Abatement District are a little bit worried about what all that water might mean when it comes to the mosquito population.
Salt Lake City Mosquito Abatement District/Facebook
Precipitation brings water…and also standing water. Properties all over the state have little ponds and big puddles that are just sitting there…
August Benjamin/flickr
…and standing water is the perfect breeding ground for mosquito larvae.
danna § curious tangles/flickr
Utah is home to 50 different species of mosquito. They love to feed on humans, especially during sunrise and sunset hours. There’s nothing more heinous than spending time outdoors, only to find later that you’re covered in itchy mosquito bites.
U.S. Dept. Of Agriculture/flickr
Some bites are even dangerous. West Nile virus was found in several counties in Utah last year, and 11 cases were reported in humans. One woman died as a result of the virus; in 2017, five Utahns died.
Global Panorama/flickr
To stay safe this summer, the SLC Mosquito Abatement District has some tips. First, make sure to stock up on mosquito repellant that’s effective. Look for those that have DEET, IR 3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Don’t forget to apply it anytime you’re outdoors, and reapply according to the directions on the label.
Mike Mozart/flickr
Check your screen for holes, and fix them to keep mosquitos out of your home. Avoid leaving doors and windows without screens open.
tzahlV/Getty Images
Make sure your yard is free of standing water. Reconsider water features such as ponds this year, and make sure to empty those kiddie wading pools every evening when the kids are done playing.
Cavan Images/Getty Images For more great tips, and to find out what the Salt Lake City Mosquito Abatement District is doing to keep mosquitos at bay, visit its website, and if you don’t live in SLC, check your local office.
Tell us what things you have planned to keep mosquitos at bay at your house!
Trish Smith via Utah Nature Lovers Group/Facebook
August Benjamin/flickr
Salt Lake City Mosquito Abatement District/Facebook
danna § curious tangles/flickr
U.S. Dept. Of Agriculture/flickr
Global Panorama/flickr
Mike Mozart/flickr
tzahlV/Getty Images
Cavan Images/Getty Images
For more great tips, and to find out what the Salt Lake City Mosquito Abatement District is doing to keep mosquitos at bay, visit its website, and if you don’t live in SLC, check your local office.
This great water year means one special benefit that Utahns don’t usually get to see – waterfalls at Gunlock State Park! Check out our feature article here, and make plans to visit before the falls are gone.
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