Why Are Gnats So Bad This Year? What Changed In 2020?

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.