Rat Infestations After Storms & Flooding | Pest Control Blog

While dealing with the immediate impact and damage caused by heavy rain, storms, and flooding, like recent storm Ashley we often focus on the visible consequences: damaged properties, flooded roads, and disrupted daily life. However, there is a less obvious but equally significant threat lurking beneath the surface: rats.

Can rats swim?

Yes, rats are very capable swimmers. They can dive through strong currents to enter exposed pipes and sewers and are known to swim up to a half mile stretch of open water without stopping. What they struggle to cope with is being submerged for lengthy periods of time. So, when their burrows and sewers they frequent are deluged with heavy rain or storm water, they are forced to seek refuge elsewhere.

Why rats can thrive after flooding

Rats are incredibly adaptable, and they will take advantage of wet, water-logged conditions if they can. Flooding may drive them from their underground burrows, forcing them to higher, drier ground. But they will instinctively look for safer, warmer places to live (in basements, cavity walls, lofts, and void spaces) and new food sources to replace those lost through flooding. This often leads to rats, invading residential homes and commercial properties in areas that have not previously experienced rodent problems in their search for new harbourages.

Flooding can also weaken building structures, creating new entry points for rodents. These vulnerabilities may not be immediately apparent but can provide easy access for persistent pests.

The impact of rodents on people and properties

The presence of rats in homes and businesses can pose a serious health risk. As well as the damage they can cause to properties and contents.

• Health risks: What diseases can rats spread? Rats can carry and transmit a variety of diseases, including Salmonella, Hantavirus, and Leptospirosis (commonly known as Weil’s disease). This can be transmitted through their urine, faeces, and saliva. Increased rodent activity due to flooding and storm damage can increase the risk of these diseases spreading. Floodwater can be contaminated with rat urine and faeces, so be cautious of standing water where rodents may thrive.
• Property damage: Rodents can cause considerable damage to buildings by gnawing on wires, insulation, pipework, and structural elements like wooden joists and floorboards. This can lead to costly repairs and potential safety hazards.

Preventing rat infestations after storms

To minimise the risk of rat infestations after heavy rain, storms and flooding it is important to take positive action:

• Clean up debris: Remove any detritus, including fallen branches, leaves, and flood-damaged materials, and any other debris that may have accumulated. This will help eliminate potential hiding places for rats. Always wear protective clothing such as gloves and boots and cover any wounds with waterproof dressings when cleaning up. Try to avoid direct contact with contaminated water or debris that may harbour rodent-borne illnesses like Weil’s disease.
• Seal entry points: Inspect your premises for any cracks, holes, or gaps in the exterior, broken or dislodged roof tiles. Pay special attention to areas where pipes, cables, or drains enter the building. Seal these openings and entry points to prevent rats from getting in.
• Store food securely: Keep food in airtight containers. This will discourage rats from seeking food inside your property. Make sure outside rubbish bins are sturdy and securely fastened to deny rodents easy pickings.

By understanding the risks posed by heavy rainfall, high water tables, storms and flooding, and the subsequent effects this has on rodents. You can take proactive steps to help prevent and mitigate potential rat infestations, helping to protect your property, health, and business.

Can climate change lead to a wetter UK?

According to Met Office data, the UK has become 7% wetter over the last 40 years, while the severity of flooding has been at an increased level for five decades. Climate change is quite likely generating lengthier rainfall. As our atmosphere warms up it can hold more moisture (about 7% more per 1°C of warming). The increase in temperature generates extra dynamic weather systems, leading to more intense and frequent downpours.

As we deal with the damage from storms and flooding, it is important to remember that milder winters (fewer rodents die naturally), increased rainfall and more extreme weather can create conditions that rats quickly adapt to and take advantage of. So, extra vigilance is needed to ensure our properties are rodent-proof whatever the weather decides to throw at us!