Mosquito numbers are rising fast in Augusta as heat and drought linger. Here are 5 things to know — and how to protect yourself now.

1. Drought can actually boost mosquito populations

Dry conditions don’t eliminate mosquitoes. Instead, they concentrate standing water in storm drains and pipes, creating ideal breeding grounds where larvae can thrive.

2. Standing water in urban systems drives mosquito growth

Without regular rainfall to flush them out, storm drains and catch basins hold stagnant water — a prime habitat for mosquito development.

3. Georgia’s climate supports a wide range of species

From mountains to coast to the Okefenokee Swamp, Georgia’s diverse environments allow dozens of mosquito species to thrive, with many found across the Augusta area and surrounding communities.

4. Only a few species pose major health risks

Of the many species present, a smaller group is linked to disease concerns, including the Southern house mosquito and Asian tiger mosquito.

5. Warming temperatures are shifting mosquito ranges

Experts say species typically found farther south are moving north as the climate warms, expanding the types of mosquitoes seen in Georgia.

How to reduce mosquito breeding around your home

• Empty, scrub or discard items that collect water, like buckets or birdbaths
• Cover containers such as rain barrels and cisterns
• Use mesh covers where lids aren’t available
• Fill tree holes and repair septic cracks
• Cover vents and exposed pipes

Mosquitoes can lay eggs that remain dormant for months — even in dry conditions — and hatch once water returns, making prevention key heading into wetter periods.

Erica Van Buren is the climate change reporter for The Augusta Chronicle, part of the USA TODAY Network. Connect with her at EVanBuren@usatodayco.com or on X: @EricaVanBuren32.

ATLANTA – Authorities are asking for the public’s help to identify an armed and dangerous suspect wanted for questioning in connection with a stabbing at the Georgia Tech MARTA Station.

What we know:

Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority police are searching for a suspect following a stabbing at the Georgia State MARTA station. Law enforcement officials said the suspect is considered armed and dangerous. Investigators last saw the man at the transit station on May 24 around 1:26 p.m. wearing a plaid shirt, black pants, a black hat and tan sneakers.

The search comes after a man was stabbed several times at the rail station that day. Responding emergency crews transported the victim to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. 

Anyone who has information about the identity or location of the suspect is urged to call transit police or Det. S. Haalliburton at 404-406-4266 or 404-848-4582.

Man stabbed multiple times at Georgia State MARTA station, police say

What we don’t know:

Officials have not publicly revealed a motive behind the violent attack. It also remains unclear if the suspect and the victim had any interaction prior to the stabbing or if the assault was entirely unprovoked.

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