Tick Populations Surge Across U.S. Regions Amid Warmer Winters
Tick populations are on the rise across several U.S. regions, including the Northeast, Upper Midwest, Middle Atlantic, Ohio River Valley, and parts of the South. According to the New York Post, this increase is attributed to recent weather patterns, such as prolonged snow cover in colder areas and warmer-than-average winters in southern states. These conditions have allowed ticks to survive and expand their habitats, leading to a surge in tick-related emergency room visits. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 71 tick-related ER visits per 100,000 in April 2026, more than double the historical average. Experts recommend proactive measures to create 'tick-free zones' around homes, such as maintaining yards, using cedar oil sprays, and planting tick-repellent plants like lavender and rosemary.