• Gnats emerge in South Carolina during the spring as temperatures rise, becoming a nuisance for outdoor activities.
• South Carolina has two common types: biting gnats that feed on blood and non-biting eye gnats attracted to bodily fluids.
• Gnats are most active at dawn and dusk when temperatures are above 70°F, with their peak season from late spring to early summer.

In South Carolina, spring officially begins on March 20 and lasts through May. As temperatures rise during this period, it’s common to see gnats and other insects emerge, signaling the arrival of warmer weather.

Gnats can have a big impact on the enjoyment of springtime in the Palmetto State. These flying insects can disrupt outdoor activities by biting people, making them a nuisance for those who enjoy spending time outside.

A study by Skitopel found that gnats are most active during dawn and dusk, with large mating swarms often appearing around sunset. Their peak season typically occurs from late spring through early summer.

During the spring season, here is what you need to know about gnats.

Are there different types of gnats?

South Carolina residents may encounter biting gnats and eye gnats.

Palmetto Exterminators states biting gnats are around 1/16 inches in diameter, also known as no-see-ums, and cut through the skin to feed on blood, leaving behind itchy, red welts that can cause discomfort.

Oceanside Collegiate Academy standout Jaiden Kelly-Murray announced Friday that he has committed to play his college football the University of South Carolina, giving the Gamecocks a major early addition to their 2027 recruiting class.

Elite Receiver Picks the Gamecocks from Roughly 30 Suitors

The four-star wide receiver selected South Carolina over a strong list of national programs that included reigning national champion Indiana, North Carolina, Stanford and Florida State. Kelly-Murray has collected roughly 30 scholarship offers during his recruitment, quickly establishing himself as one of the most coveted playmakers in the Southeast.

The 5-foot-10, 170-pound pass catcher is known for his explosive speed, route precision and ability to create big plays after the catch — traits that made him a priority target for several Power Four programs.

Ultimately, the Gamecocks’ vision for his role in their offense and the opportunity to stay close to home helped seal the decision.

Breakout Production at Summerville

Kelly-Murray’s recruiting rise accelerated after a standout junior season at Summerville High School, where he helped lead the Green Wave to the South Carolina Class 5A Division I state championship game for the second consecutive year.

He finished the season with 64 receptions for 957 yards and 14 touchdowns, emerging as one of the most dangerous receivers in the state. Kelly-Murray also contributed on defense, recording two interceptions.

His production followed an even more eye-opening sophomore campaign that showcased his versatility as a playmaker.

As a sophomore, Kelly-Murray hauled in 81 passes for 1,202 yards and 13 touchdowns. He also rushed for 215 yards and four scores on 33 carries, while completing 3 of 4 passes for 89 yards in gadget situations.

Those numbers made him a matchup nightmare — capable of impacting games as a receiver, runner and occasional passer.

New Chapter at Oceanside Collegiate

Kelly-Murray recently transferred to Oceanside Collegiate Academy, where he is expected to become one of the focal points of the Landsharks’ offense.

The move places him alongside quarterback Aidan Manavian and a program that has quickly become one of the most successful in South Carolina high school football.

With Kelly-Murray’s big-play ability now in the fold, Oceanside Collegiate gains another dangerous weapon as the Landsharks pursue their fourth consecutive state championship this fall.

For South Carolina, meanwhile, the commitment represents another step toward building a dynamic future offense — led by one of the most electrifying young receivers in the region.

The South Carolina Education Lottery offers several draw games for those aiming to win big.