Ticks are expected to be bad in 2026, as tick populations and tick-borne disease rates have been increasing in recent years due to climate change, warmer winters, expanding deer and rodent host ranges, and increased outdoor recreation, and this trend is expected to continue. Factors that make ticks bad include milder winters that allow more ticks to survive, longer warm seasons that extend questing period when ticks seek hosts, and expanding geographic range of blacklegged ticks that carry Lyme disease into new areas. CDC data shows Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses increasing, with Northeast, Mid Atlantic, and Upper Midwest being worst affected, and 2026 is likely to see similar or higher activity, especially in spring and summer months from May to September when nymphs are active. However, severity varies by region, weather patterns, and local control efforts. Wet springs followed by warm summers can increase tick activity, while very hot dry summers may reduce it somewhat. Predictions suggest ticks will be bad in 2026, particularly in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and other high incidence states. To prepare, use repellents with DEET or permethrin treated clothing, perform thorough tick checks after outdoor activities, shower within two hours, wash and dry clothes on high heat, keep yards mowed and leaf litter removed, and treat pets with tick preventative.
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