Brood XIX and Brood XIII: Which States Will Experience Their Emergence?

This spring, trillions of cicadas will emerge from the ground in a rare, double-brood event in over a dozen states in the Southeast and Midwest. Brood XIX and Brood XIII, which emerge every 13 and 17 years respectively, will overlap in Iowa and Illinois. The cicadas will emerge when the soil reaches 64 degrees, likely beginning in mid-May and lasting through late June. The two broods last emerged in 1803, and the next predicted double-emergence will be in 2245. Female cicadas lay eggs in trees, which then drop to the ground and burrow for years before emerging. Once above ground, cicadas mate, lay eggs, and die in about five weeks. Annual cicadas emerge every year, while periodical cicadas emerge every 13 or 17 years. Cicadas are not harmful to humans, pets, gardens, or crops, and can actually provide environmental benefits such as being a food source for predators, aerating lawns, improving water filtration, and adding nutrients to the soil as they decompose. Overall, the emergence of the cicadas may be a unique and fascinating event to witness in the coming months.

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