Spain warns of heat‑driven pest spikes: cockroaches surge in Sevilla, hornet attacks rise in Galicia

Castillo Nevado, a sanitation‑services company, says seasonal heat is boosting American cockroach (Periplaneta americana) activity in Sevilla. The insects proliferate in sewer networks and can enter homes via drains. Technical manager Amanda Zamora warned that “high temperatures favor the growth and development of this species, increasing the risk of infestation in urban areas such as Sevilla.” She recommends professional diagnosis, sealing of cracks and regular cleaning of drainage to prevent infestations.

In Galicia, the Asian hornet (vespa velutina) has become more aggressive during the heat wave. The Galician beekeepers’ association (DAGA) reports seven people treated in emergency rooms after being stung while clearing farmland, and the regional government’s Seaga service has been handling a surge in removal calls. Representative Juan Alonso noted that the hornet’s sting “triples the venom injected by the common wasp,” and advises residents to inspect properties before mowing and use a pole to disrupt nests. The Xunta has allocated €1.7 million to remove over 600 nests last year, with numbers already doubling in 2025.