People living in rural parts of India or near forest borders are no strangers to snake attacks. The venomous ones are especially lethal — with the power to send you to the emergency ward of a hospital. Every year, India reports thousands of snakebite deaths, many of which are preventable with the proper awareness and timely medical action.
Unfortunately, these reptiles slither into our homes during stormy weather. To know why, contacted Deepak Sharma from Indian Pest Control, who said: “During stormy weather, often leave their burrows because of flooding, ground vibrations from thunder, and disruption to their usual hunting areas. In such times, they look for dry, warm, and sheltered places—and homes become a natural target.”
To prevent them from entering, Sharma said it is vital to seal off common access points like gaps under doors, cracks in walls, broken vents, and open plumbing holes. Simple fixes like installing door sweeps, wire mesh, and silicone caulk can also help block their entry during monsoons.
He says keeping the area around your home clean is equally important. “Snakes often hide in wood piles, leaf litter, and even unused shoes left outside. Remove clutter, trim overgrown grass, and store firewood at least two feet above the ground. , so maintaining open, tidy surroundings can naturally discourage them,” he advised.
Sharma suggested using sandbags outside low-level doors and drains — this not only helps prevent water entry but can also block them, especially since they avoid climbing over rough or unstable surfaces during heavy rain.
“In rural or semi-urban areas, consider installing a three-foot-high mesh fence that’s slightly tilted outward and buried a few inches underground—this creates an effective physical barrier,” he said, adding that certain areas around the house, like electric meter boxes, drainage outlets, or inverter corners, are warm and dark—ideal hiding spots for snakes. Covering these with zip-tied mesh can prevent them from sneaking in unnoticed.
“You can also use natural deterrents such as crushed garlic mixed with rock salt, or the strong smell of traditional white phenyl (not the scented varieties), which snakes dislike. However, these are only supplementary—don’t rely on them alone,” he added.
Since most , having basic lighting in your garden or near entry points helps. Sharma further recommended motion sensors or sudden light changes to make snakes uncomfortable and act as a deterrent. Altogether, a mix of cleanliness, physical barriers, and awareness can go a long way in keeping your home safe during stormy weather.
Some important pointers to keep in mind in case you come across the unwanted serpent inside your living premises and around:
Do not reach into dark corners barefoot. Shake out shoes, clothes, and bags before using them. If you spot a snake, freeze, step back slowly, and call for help.
Know who you are dealing with: Learn your area’s 3–4 common snake species. Know what’s venomous and what’s just passing through. Print a quick ID sheet and stick it on the fridge for reference.
Don’t pour kerosene or diesel: They’re bad for you and worse for the soil. Also, avoid placing bird feeders near the house, as mice bring snakes.
Don’t try to kill it: Unless you’re formally trained, you’re just picking a fight.
