As the City of Arlington continues to take measures to combat West Nile virus, recent rain is both good news and bad when it comes to mosquito control. Rain plays a significant role in the breeding cycle of mosquitoes and initially, can be a helpful tool in controlling the spread of West Nile virus.

When it rains, storm drains, gutters and other mosquito breeding sites are flushed out eliminating larvae and interrupting the breeding cycle. That's the good news. Unfortunately, rain can also lead to more mosquitoes by creating new breeding grounds. Shallow pools of standing water left behind by rain can give mosquitoes a new site to breed. Mosquitoes only need a teaspoon of water to breed. It is extremely important to drain all areas of standing water from recent rain to help prevent the disease from spreading. Be sure to check your property for any sign of standing water to eliminate even the slightest risk of mosquitoes on your property.