09/23/2026
Smoky brown cockroaches are surging in Alabama homes because intense summer heat and heavy rain stress their outdoor habitats, driving these moisture-seeking insects indoors.
Why They Are Worse Right Now
• Extreme Heat: High summer temperatures dry out outdoor hiding spots like mulch, leaf litter, and pine straw, forcing roaches to look for water inside.
• Heavy Rainfall: Severe storms flood ground nesting areas, gutters, and storm drains, pushing the bugs to climb up and out toward drier structures.
• High Humidity: Smoky browns lose body moisture fast. Alabama's humid climate keeps their outdoor populations high, and they slip through roof eaves, soffits, and vents when seeking shelter.
• Strong Flyers: Unlike some crawling species, mature smoky browns fly well and are actively drawn to porch or landscape lights at night, landing near doors and windows before finding gaps to creep inside.