Summers are about barbecuing outside and hanging out by the pool. Unfortunately, it seems like the moment we set foot out our doors, it’s almost guaranteed that a swarm of gnats will buzz around our faces.
Every year, the gnat problem seems to get exponentially worse. They are everywhere in Pennsylvania, as far south as Montgomery County and as far north as Lackawanna County.
Like many years before, it seems feel like this year is the worst year yet for these annoying flying insects. So, why are gnats so bad this year, and what can we do to get rid of them?
The Problem with Gnats
Gnats are tiny, flying insects that are more of a seasonal pest than a year-round nuisance. While they don’t do any damage to your home, their annoyance is far more of an issue.
They can often swarm on your property, near bodies of water, or weasel their way into your home. If they do hang around, they can easily make your life miserable.
There are several different gnat species: fungus gnats, buffalo gnats, and black gnats. While they can all be irritating, the buffalo variety has been known to bite.
They also swarm near points of moisture, which could lead to a bug in the eyes, nose, or mouth. Plus, there’s never just one gnat. Wherever they swarm, there will be a ton of these little pests. So, why are they a problem, and what can you do about them?
Why Are There So Many Gnats This Year in Pennsylvania?
Every year, it seems like gnats are getting worse and worse. Mainly a spring and summertime pest, these little insects emerge as the winter thaws, and they are attracted to moisture.
The gnat population could simply be attributed to the moisture in the environment. Considering the increased amount of rain in 2025, it’s no wonder there are so many gnats this year.
It doesn’t have to be just rain, either. They can be found by rivers or other forms of flowing water.
Gnats are attracted to several other areas that accumulate moisture. Decaying wood, rotting fruit, over-watered plants, wet potting soil, damp sinks, and drains are prime gnat spots.
Worse, we aren’t the only ones who suffer from their yearly invasion. Birds and mammals also suffer the wrath and can sometimes die because of overwhelming gnat bites.
Fortunately, they have a short life cycle; once temperatures rise over 80 degrees, they tend to disappear. So, how can you keep them at bay?
How to Protect Yourself from Gnats
While it can be difficult to stay indoors once the weather starts to warm up, that’s one sure-fire method of protecting yourself from annoying gnats. If you head outside, wear long sleeves and pants to protect your skin.
Make sure they are lightly colored; dark colors attract more gnats. Additionally, apply repellents with DEET, which could also help deter other biting bugs.
Sweet smells draw gnats, so your perfume or shampoo can attract more attention from these flying pests. Try to select scents that repel insects, like citronella, or use unscented soaps and detergents.
How to Get Rid of Gnats in Your Yard
If you want to stop gnats from coming back or finding a cozy spot in your yard, there are few things you can do. Gnats are attracted to areas with high moisture, so areas with mold, fungus, or rotting debris are ideal environments for them.
If you have wood or compost piles, make sure they are kept far from your home or areas you wish to spend time in. Be mindful of any shady areas that accumulate rainwater.
After the winter, your lawn may be littered with dead tree branches, leaves, or rotting plant life. Before the gnats notice, it’s a good idea to clear your yard. During your clean-up, if you have a garden, turn the soil so it will drain properly.
Be sure to tend to your yard regularly by raking and turning the dirt to dry it out. This is important if you have mulch near your home or garden beds. Anywhere moisture can gather is a perfect gnat haven.
Additionally, you don’t want to overwater your yard or garden. Give everything enough time to dry.
Otherwise, the moisture will draw in a whole swarm. When you do water, give your yard ample time to dry; it’s best to water in the morning to avoid overwatering at night.
Much like mosquitoes, gnats thrive in still and standing water. Be mindful of any areas that gather water on your property, like driveways, birdbaths, gutters, and lawn equipment. Try to dry out any overexposed areas with sand or dry dirt.
Finally, if you have a garbage can, put a lid on it. Not only are gnats drawn to the smell of rotting food, but they can potentially attract worse, unwanted pests to your backyard.
Stopping Gnats from Ruining Your Summer
Don’t hide inside and wait until the temperatures rise. If you have a gnat problem, try to get on top of the problem with these simple prevention methods.
If the issue is more significant than you can handle, contact a pest control expert to assess your property and get rid of these nasty flying insects for good. Take back your yard and the warm weather.
FAQs
Why are there so many gnats in my yard this year?
Unusually warm, wet, or humid weather can lead to population booms. A rainy spring, poor drainage, or leftover organic matter (like wet leaves and mulch) can all create ideal breeding grounds for gnats.
What attracts gnats to my yard in the first place?
Gnats are drawn to moisture, decaying organic matter, compost, overwatered plants, and standing water. Shaded areas with poor airflow also attract them.
Do gnats bite or sting?
Some types, like biting midges or black gnats, can bite, but the most common yard gnats are harmless. However, their constant swarming can be irritating and disruptive.
