Gnat Season Hits South Carolina as the Weather Warms

When the temperature climbs, a tiny army of gnats starts to appear across South Carolina. These minuscule insects, often called no‑see‑ums, are almost invisible but leave itchy bites that feel like a mosquito sting. The arrival of gnats is closely tied to warm, humid conditions. According to a local horticulture expert, the heat and moisture signal that these flies will be around soon. There are two main types: biting gnats and eye gnats. The biting variety, also known as the biting midge or sand gnat, lives near wetlands such as swamps, marshes, ponds and stream banks. Midges belong to the same fly family as mosquitoes (Order Diptera) but are smaller—about one‑sixteenth of an inch. Female midges need a blood meal to produce eggs, so they often feed on humans early in the morning and late at night. Unlike mosquitoes that simply suck blood, biting midges slice a tiny hole in the skin to feed. The bite leaves a raised, itchy bump that can be uncomfortable.In healthy water bodies, fish and other predators keep gnat larvae in check. However, polluted or unbalanced waters can reduce these predators, allowing more midges to thrive. To stay comfortable outdoors, a screened porch can help keep gnats out. Portable fans are also effective because these insects are weak fliers. Moving around rather than standing still makes it harder for them to locate a target. Long sleeves, breathable fabrics, and bug spray add extra protection. Residents often hope for county‑wide insect control, but the local mosquito program focuses only on mosquitoes. Their spraying schedule depends on weather and current mosquito populations, so it may not start until the heat rises further. In the meantime, keeping a fan and insect repellent handy is the best way to beat the gnats as they swarm.