Brits warned of mosquito invasion this week as Hurricane Dorian sparks 25C heatwave
BRITS are being warned of a mosquito invasion this week as Hurricane Dorian is set to spark a 25C heatwave.
Experts say the unusual September weather could lead to millions of the pesky critters feasting on our flesh.
The week-long sizzling conditions are down to ex-Hurricane Dorian and Tropical Storm Gabrielle's super-high wind speeds, which are set to draw in hot air from the south.
According to the Met Office, today will see some rainfall but the drizzle is set to ease off overnight to make way for a clear start tomorrow.
Temperatures in England and Wales could reach as high as 25C on Friday with the weekend set to be bright and sunny for most.
Met Office forecaster Marco Petagna said: “It turns warmer and humid as the remnants of Dorian and Gabrielle feed tropical air to the UK.
“It turns warmer still at the weekend and early next week with high pressure, with 25C possible in the South.”
Perfect conditions
But that tropical humid weather makes perfect conditions for mosquitoes.
Bite prevention expert Howard Carter told The Sun Online: “This unexpected change in weather conditions could lead to potentially millions of aggressive, biting insects, including mosquitoes, bees, wasps and midges.
“Don’t pack away your insect repellent and sun cream just yet as insects will be biting and stinging us well into October, if not November as well.
Don’t pack away your insect repellent just yet - insects will be biting and stinging us well into October and November
Howard Carter
"It’s important for families to remember to send their children to school wearing sun cream and insect repellent.
"That's not something we’re used to doing in this country at this time of year.
"And it’s especially important to be protected at the weekend, as everyone is likely to be outdoors enjoying the sun."
Mr Carter, who is also MD at incognito mosquito repellent, said it's also important to avoid all fragrances.
Avoid getting bitten... follow the CLOAK method
Try using my CLOAK method for effective bite prevention…
C – Cover up arms and legs with suitable clothing
L – Light coloured clothes are strongly advisable
O – Odours, bodily or otherwise, like certain kairomones and perfumes are strong attractants. So wash thoroughly, including exfoliating with a loofah, and do not use perfumes
A – Apply an effective, preferably natural, combined suncream and insect repellent containing PMD, such as
K – Keep away from stagnant water if possible
"Some perfumes such as lavender combinations actually attract insects – just look closely at a lavender bush," he said.
"Be aware that most toiletries and sunscreens, along with most fabric softeners contain scent. Be aware of your odour output.
"Use protection on any exposed skin and spray your clothing as well.
"Mosquitoes can and will bite through fabric, even thick jeans.
Mosquitoes can and will bite through fabric, even thick jeans
Howard Carter
"Spray an insect repellent on and around your back door or your summerhouse door before entering, as mosquitoes often lie in wait on the outside of doors and windows and this simple procedure helps to keep them out.
"A lot of mosquitoes zero in on the ears, wrists and ankles because this is where the skin is thinner and blood vessels are nearer the surface, which is one of the reasons women generally get bitten more than men.
"So, it is a good idea to wash with a loofah soap that contains citronella, then spray and use a moisturiser containing citronellol, but always use the spray last."
MORE ON INSECTS
It comes amid fears that Zika-carrying Asian tiger mosquitoes, native to South East Asia, could spread to Europe.
Dr James Logan, from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said: "The Asian tiger mosquito has been found in the UK over the last couple of years in small numbers.
"We don’t think they’re established here, they’re not breeding here - but this weather means there is a higher chance of them surviving."
We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for The Sun Online news team? Email us at [email protected] or call 0207 782 4368 . You can WhatsApp us on 07810 791 502. We pay for videos too. Click here to upload yours.