Experts explain why this natural phenomenon will be unique and unusual, as the United States prepares for this event in 2024.
In a couple of weeks, the United States will witness an unprecedented natural phenomenon: the ‘cicada apocalypse.’ Billions of these insects will emerge from underground with their characteristic bright red eyes and deafening chorus that will fill the air.
While this situation is common during this time of year, the number of cicadas emerging from underground will be unprecedented. In fact, it’s something not seen since 221 years ago, and it won’t happen again until the year 2245.
The reason? In 2024, two periodical cicada broods, each with 13- and 17-year life cycles, respectively, will coincide in an unprecedented emergence. Brood XIX, known as the Great Southern Brood, and Brood XIII from northern Illinois will emerge from the ground to unleash a natural spectacle of epic proportions.
“It’s rare to see a double brood of this magnitude,” said Dr. Jonathan Larson, an entomologist and adjunct professor at the University of Kentucky. “We’re talking about an absolute rarity in nature, one of the most impressive insects in the United States.”
Everything You Need to Know About Cicadas
The first thing you should know is that there are periodical cicadas and annual cicadas.
While annual cicadas emerge every summer, periodical cicadas do so in less frequent but more noticeable cycles, giving them a unique appearance and precise synchronization.
Periodical cicadas, belonging to the genus Magicicada, emerge in 13- or 17-year cycles and are distinguished from annual cicadas by their unique appearance and precise timing. Annual cicadas appear every summer, while periodical cicadas are smaller, mostly black, with bright red eyes and orange-tinted wings and legs.
When and Where Cicadas Will Emerge in the United States
The emergence of periodical cicadas is scheduled for mid-May, coinciding with soil temperatures at a depth of 8 inches reaching 64°F. Though their adult life is brief, their appearance will be staggered, offering approximately six weeks of cicada activity.
The impact of climate change on cicadas is another aspect of interest. As the global climate undergoes changes, questions arise about how these variations may affect the life cycles and emergence patterns of periodical cicadas in the future.
For about a month and a half, the Midwest and Southeast United States are expected to become the stage for this unique natural spectacle. This event, described by entomologist Dr. Jonathan Larson as “the most macabre carnival ever seen,” will be marked by shrill calls, mating, and the complete life cycle of these insects.
Periodical cicadas, divided into Broods XIII and XIX, will have a significant presence in various parts of the country. The northern part of Illinois, along with southern Wisconsin, eastern Iowa, and northwestern Indiana, is expected to witness the emergence of Brood XIII cicadas. Meanwhile, central and southern Illinois, much of Missouri, and scattered areas of Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas will host Brood XIX cicadas.
How to Prepare for the Arrival of Cicadas
1) Cover young trees with cicada netting to protect them from potential damage when they lay their eggs.
2) Be prepared for the large number of insects and their characteristic sounds for approximately six weeks.
3) Download community science apps to contribute to scientific research by sending photos of observed cicadas.
4) Appreciate this unique natural phenomenon and enjoy the opportunity to witness some of the world’s most unusual insect behaviors.
Image: DiarioNY
