By Andi Anderson
Get ready for the noisy return of periodical cicadas in Illinois! According to Ken Johnson, an Extension horticulture educator, billions of cicadas will be emerging simultaneously from broods XIII and XIX across the state in 2024. This rare event, not seen since 1803, is a natural phenomenon worth experiencing.
While cicadas may not pose a threat, their loud calls can reach over 90 decibels, similar to the sound of a lawnmower. Currently, the cicadas are underground, waiting for soil temperatures to reach 64 degrees Fahrenheit before emerging.
For those curious about the cicada soil conditions in their area, the University of Illinois State Water Survey offers a soil temperature tool that can be accessed by creating a free account. This tool is valuable for farmers, gardeners, and now, cicada enthusiasts.
Stay informed about the cicada emergence in May and June by visiting extension.illinois.edu/insects/cicadas. Don't forget to download Extension’s Cicada Broods infosheet at go.illinois.edu/Cicadas24 for more information.
Prepare for the symphony of cicadas as they make their grand entrance into Illinois this year!
Photo Credit: pexels-tom-van-dyck
Categories: Illinois, General