Quick Tips for Managing 17-Year Periodical Cicada Noise

Every 17 years, a unique and fascinating natural event unfolds in various parts of the United States — the emergence of periodical cicadas. These insects, known scientifically as Magicicada, appear in massive numbers and fill the air with a loud, distinctive noise that can last for weeks. While their emergence is a marvel of nature, the intense noise can be overwhelming, especially for those living in affected areas. If you find yourself dealing with the persistent sound of these cicadas, this article will provide quick and practical tips for managing their noise effectively.

Understanding the 17-Year Periodical Cicada

Before diving into noise management techniques, it’s helpful to understand what makes these cicadas so special:

Life Cycle: Periodical cicadas spend about 17 years underground as nymphs before emerging simultaneously in huge broods.

Noise Source: Male cicadas create loud buzzing or clicking sounds to attract females. When thousands sing together, the sound can reach up to 100 decibels, comparable to a lawnmower or motorcycle engine.
Duration: The loud chorusing typically lasts for 4–6 weeks during late spring and early summer.
Geographic Range: Broods emerge in specific regions, mostly in eastern and central U.S., including parts of Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.

The sheer volume and persistence of periodical cicada noise can disrupt daily life, making it hard to concentrate, sleep, or enjoy outdoor activities. Fortunately, there are several strategies that can help reduce the impact.

1. Use Soundproofing Techniques at Home

One of the best ways to manage cicada noise is by limiting how much sound enters your living space.

Seal Windows and Doors

Cicada sounds often come through small gaps or cracks around windows and doors.

Use weather stripping or draft stoppers to seal openings.
Apply caulk around window frames if needed.
Consider adding heavy curtains or blinds that can muffle outside noises.

Invest in Double-Pane Windows

If you live in an area with frequent brood emergences or just want long-term benefits:

Double-pane windows provide better insulation against outdoor noise.
They also improve energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer.

Add Soundproofing Materials

For more comprehensive sound control:

Install acoustic panels on walls facing outside.
Use thick rugs or carpets to absorb indoor echoes.
Place bookshelves or furniture along exterior walls to help block sound transmission.

2. Create White Noise Buffers

White noise machines or apps can help mask cicada sounds indoors by producing steady, soothing background noise.

Popular White Noise Options

Fans or air purifiers running at low speed.
Dedicated white noise machines with adjustable volume and sound types (rainfall, ocean waves).
Smartphone apps offering customizable ambient sounds.

The goal is not to eliminate cicada noise but to cover it enough so it becomes less noticeable and distracting.

3. Manage Outdoor Noise Exposure

If you enjoy spending time outside but want relief from cicada choruses:

Choose Quieter Times of Day

Cicadas tend to be most active during daylight hours and peak at midday.

Early mornings and late evenings usually have reduced cicada activity.

Plan outdoor activities for dawn or dusk when noise levels drop.

Find Natural Sound Barriers

Vegetation like dense shrubs or trees can help muffle insect sounds.

Position seating areas where bushes act as buffers.
Use garden structures such as pergolas with climbing plants to block direct sound paths.

Use Portable Sound Barriers

For patios or decks:

Consider temporary screens made from acoustic fabric panels.
Outdoor water features like fountains create natural white noise that can mask cicadas nearby.

4. Protect Your Sleep Environment

Sleep disruption is one of the biggest complaints during cicada emergences due to their loud daytime calls carrying into evening hours.

Optimize Bedroom Acoustics

Close windows tightly at night.
Use heavy curtains or blackout shades that also reduce sound penetration.

Place a white noise machine near your bed to promote restful sleep.

Earplugs Can Help

High-quality earplugs designed for sleep offer effective relief from persistent outdoor noises like cicadas without completely blocking all sounds (for safety).

5. Limit Stress Through Behavioral Adjustments

Noise annoyance can increase stress levels if you feel powerless over the situation. Taking proactive steps helps maintain calm.

Stay Informed About Cicada Activity

Knowing when broods are expected allows you to prepare mentally and practically:

Check local agricultural extension websites or entomology resources for emergence schedules.
Anticipate peak noisy weeks so you plan quiet indoor activities accordingly.

Focus on Relaxation Techniques

Practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or listening to calming music can improve your tolerance for ongoing noise disturbances.

6. Engage the Community for Support

Periodical cicada events impact entire neighborhoods. Working together can amplify your ability to manage noise challenges.

Share Tips and Experiences

Community forums or social media groups help exchange practical ideas tailored for your neighborhood’s specific conditions.

Organize Group Efforts for Mitigation

Neighborhood plantings of trees and shrubs may dampen overall noise exposure in public spaces over time.

7. Embrace the Event as a Natural Wonder

While managing discomfort is important, remembering that periodical cicadas are a rare ecological phenomenon may help shift your perspective.

Educational Opportunities

Learn about their role in ecosystems:

Cicadas aerate soil during nymph stages underground.
Their emergence provides food for birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.

Sharing information with children and neighbors can foster appreciation rather than frustration.

Enjoy Temporary Activities Related to Cicadas

Capture photos or videos of this once-in-a-lifetime event where possible—next brood won’t arrive in your area for another 17 years!

Summary: Practical Steps Recap

By following these quick tips for managing periodical cicada noise, you can minimize disruption during this extraordinary natural event. With some preparation and simple adaptations, even the loudest cicada chorus can become more bearable—and maybe even appreciated as part of nature’s incredible rhythms.