Residents of Newberry County, South Carolina, have been baffled by a loud whining noise in the air that sounds like a siren, whine, or roar. The Newberry County Sheriff’s Office informed residents via Facebook that these noises are actually caused by male cicadas singing to attract mates after more than a decade of dormancy. The noise generated by these cicadas can be as loud as a jet engine, prompting calls from concerned residents wondering about the source of the sound.
Despite the annoyance caused by the loud cicadas, Newberry County Sheriff Lee Foster reassured residents that these insects pose no danger to humans or pets. The cicadas are just a natural part of their environment. This emergence of cicadas is occurring in southern states like South Carolina, where the weather warms up quicker. However, in cooler states like those in the upper Midwest, cicadas might not emerge until June. This year, two broods of cicadas, Brood XIX and Brood XIII, are emerging in different regions of the country.
The current emergence of cicadas marks the first time since 1803 that two broods have emerged simultaneously. This convergence will result in a significant increase in cicada populations not seen in generations. The dual emergence of Brood XIX and Brood XIII will mainly be observed in parts of Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Missouri, Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia. The bugs will arrive in these areas in large numbers, creating a unique natural phenomenon.
The loud cicadas have generated curiosity and concern among residents, with some even flagging down deputies to inquire about the noise. Scientists who study cicadas typically wear earmuffs to protect their hearing from the insects’ collective songs. The emergence of cicadas is a natural event driven by environmental factors and cycles. While the noise may be irritating to some, it is a part of the ecosystem and plays a crucial role in the life cycle of these insects.
As the cicadas continue their mating calls and search for partners, the phenomenon serves as a reminder of the diversity and resilience of nature. Despite the disruption caused by their loud noises, the cicadas are harmless and fulfill a vital ecological function. The current emergence of cicadas provides an opportunity for residents to witness a unique natural event that occurs only once every several decades. By understanding and appreciating the cicadas’ role in the environment, residents can gain a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of all living organisms.
