Cicadas 2025: Billions of Brood XIV Set to Emerge in Eastern U.S. This Spring

A rare natural spectacle is about to unfold across parts of the eastern United States. Brood XIV cicadas — one of the largest broods of 17-year periodical cicadas — are preparing to surface after spending nearly two decades underground.

Starting in mid-May and continuing through late June, billions of these black-and-orange insects will emerge across 13 states, filling the air with their signature buzzing calls and creating a scene that’s both fascinating and deafening.

Why Now?

Brood XIV cicadas last appeared in 2008. Since then, their nymphs have lived beneath the soil, feeding on sap from tree roots. Their emergence is triggered when the soil temperature reaches approximately 64°F at 8 inches deep.