"Anticipating the Roar: Illinois Braces for Rare Double Brood Cicada Emergence"

Two cicada broods are set to emerge in Illinois this spring and summer, with densities of up to a million and a half per acre. The noise from these insects, which can reach decibels similar to a lawn mower or passing jet, is expected to be disruptive, but their life cycle is short, lasting just four to six weeks. The emergence is predicted to occur between mid-May and early June, with the Northern Illinois Brood's emergence typically lasting approximately four weeks. While the noise may be substantial, cicadas are harmless and can be appreciated by nature lovers, and they also provide benefits such as being a valuable food source for birds and improving water filtration into the ground.