A trillion cicadas will emerge in the next few weeks.

This coverage is brought to you by a partnership between WBEZ and Grist, a nonprofit environmental media organization. If you reside in the Midwest or Southeast, you are likely aware that the cicadas are on their way. Specifically in Chicago, the Cicadalypse is looming. Cicadas, known for their loud buzzing, come in annual and periodical varieties – appearing every year or in 13-year and 17-year cycles. This year, the periodical Brood XIX and Brood XIII are set to emerge simultaneously in parts of central Illinois for the first time since 1803. The emergence will span 16 states, with cicadas already emerging in the South. Due to climate change, these insects are ahead of schedule, emerging earlier than usual due to rising temperatures. An increase in premature cicada sightings has been observed, signaling a shift in their patterns. As these creatures rely on soil temperature to emerge, the warming planet is altering their behaviors. The overlap of Brood XIX and Brood XIII may lead to hybridization, potentially creating new species of cicadas. The emergence of billions of cicadas will attract various bird species, providing a feeding frenzy for local wildlife. Though cicadas pose no harm to humans, they can cause damage to small trees during egg-laying. Wrapping trees in tulle can protect them from cicada egg-laying, ensuring they remain healthy. Despite the temporary annoyance caused by cicadas, their emergence is a natural event that can provide insight into the impact of human activity on the environment.