Above: The state map of the zone that they are scheduled to begin spraying tonight and over several evenings. (image from mass.gov)
Last week, I notified you that the state “anticipated” starting aerial spraying in our area for mosquitoes last night. The caveat was that it would be weather dependent. It turns out that last night’s weather wasn’t ideal.
The Mass Dept of Public Health’s latest update shares:
Aerial mosquito spraying operations in areas of Middlesex and Worcester Counties did not take place as planned Sunday evening, August 25 due to cold temperatures. Aerial spraying operations are scheduled to resume on the evening of Monday, August 26 and to continue for several evenings, depending on the weather.
It remains critically important for people in communities at critical, high and moderate risk for EEE to continue to take personal precautions against mosquito bites. These steps include using EPA-approved bug spray, wearing long sleeves and pants outdoors to reduce exposed skin, and cancelling outdoor activities in the hours from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
I heard three passes from downtown to the east a bit after midnight last night.
can we open our windows tonight?
As long as there are no holes in your screens that mosquitoes can get through – go ahead. I just checked and the state website says that the spraying was completed. It does warn that the spraying didn’t end the threat:
Beth , you are correct, the spraying didn’t end the threat, I would calculate that about 60% of the mosquitoes were killed here at my place, with 40% alive and well. there was a reduction but not enough . They may have to repeat the process..