Rain and high temperatures bring swarms of mosquitoes to Murcia
The warm, damp weather has created ideal breeding conditions for the irritating insects throughout Spain
A sudden surge in mosquito activity is troubling residents across Cartagena and the wider Region of Murcia, as the recent spell of spring downpours combined with climbing temperatures has created the perfect breeding conditions for the troublesome insects.
In many towns and cities, the nuisance is now becoming a daily concern and locals in Cartagena say the swarms are so intense that opening windows in the late afternoon has become nearly impossible.
Antonio Molina, president of the Nueva Cartagena Residents' Association, confirmed growing unrest among his neighbours:
“In recent days, we've had quite a few complaints from residents. In this area, we have a section of the esplanade that isn't underground, about four hundred meters long, that runs from the San Antón pavilion to the San Vicente de Paul school roundabout, and water flows from there year-round, both in winter and summer. Between that stagnant water and the heat we're experiencing, it's normal,” he said.
While areas beneath bridges, streambeds and overgrown scrubland remain hotspots for tiger mosquito activity due to lingering stagnant water after it rains, urban settings aren't immune either. Cartagena city itself is facing issues, notably in the Casa Llagostera area, where ancient Roman archaeological remains now lie beneath pools of standing water.
Luis Ibáñez, president of the San Diego Neighbourhood Association, added that the problem is all too real: “I myself have noticed more mosquitoes this morning while walking along the promenade.”
Alarmingly, it’s not just public areas contributing to the problem. Health experts estimate that up to 80% of mosquito breeding takes place on private property—flowerpots with pooling water, neglected swimming pools, pet bowls left outside and other seemingly harmless containers all become mosquito nurseries in the warm, wet conditions.
But the Region of Murcia isn’t facing the mosquito plague alone. Other municipalities across Spain—including Castellón, Vera, Orihuela, El Puerto de Santa María, Almería, Cádiz, and San Pedro del Pinatar—are already rolling out emergency measures. From larvicide treatments to enhanced fumigation efforts, cities are stepping up in an attempt to contain the mosquito boom before it spirals into a public health issue.
Back in October 2024, Cartagena City Council took proactive steps by tendering a new €1.3 million contract for pest control, spanning services for tiger mosquitoes, seagulls, pigeons and more. Set to cover four years, the plan included a novel ‘door-to-door’ inspection and treatment service, running from May to October, allowing technicians to assist residents directly at their homes. The contract also expanded treatment zones to include flood-prone areas and riverbeds, ensuring coverage across the entire municipality, including coastal towns like La Manga, Cabo de Palos and Isla Plana.
However, progress has stalled. Despite the contract tender closing on October 14, 2024, there is still no confirmed date for the award.
With another burst of storm activity forecast this week across the Region of Murcia, interspersed with lots of warm, sunny spells, the problem is only likely to worsen. The authorities recommend that homeowners check their properties for any standing water and, if all else fails, keep the insect repellent handy.
Find all the latest weather and climate change news here or join our Murcia Weather Watch Facebook group for regular updates
Image: Pexels
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