How Hot Can Termites Survive?
WouterTermites cannot survive temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. They are unable to hide from the heat and will die within minutes if exposed to the high temperatures. This is because they need moisture to survive.
During winter, when temperatures drop, it will become difficult for termites to remain active. This will result in a decreased swarming activity, and a less active colony. The cold weather will also reduce the colony’s ability to build new colonies. The colony may move to a more stable temperature.
During summer, when temperatures are above 12degC, wood termites will begin to emerge. However, they will die when temperatures fall below 16degC. During the coldest months, when the temperatures are below 25degF, they will not be able to survive. They will move to places where they can stay cool and protected.
During winter, the activity center may shift to the deep portion of the log. During the spring, they will swarm when the temperatures rise. These colonies will try to establish new colonies in warmer climates.
While a colony of subterranean termites may not be able to survive in extreme temperatures, they can still make a living by burrowing into the ground and building tunnels. These tunnels allow them to keep their nests alive by providing a source of moisture. These tunnels may be a few inches wide and about pencil-width in diameter.
During the summer, a wood termite colony may have been destroyed, but it will recover at warmer temperatures. They will then use the wood to create a protective layer against sunlight and will tunnel further into the wood to remain above ground.
