A pantry moth invasion brought on by this year's sweltering summer is plaguing Australian homes.

One expert from the South Australian Research and Development Institute said the recent hot spell is sparking an explosion in their population.

'The warmer weather means they develop faster and this may be why they appear more prevalent,' said Dr Peter Taverner in the Adelaide Advertiser. 

Residents have been battling a particularly strong infestation in the cupboards of their kitchens.

One mother, Clair Kolokas, said: 'I keep thinking surely I've got them all, and the next morning they're back.'

'I have gone through the entire cupboard, and my children are scared to open it in case one flies out into their face,' she said. 

Combined with the hot weather, part of the reason for the outbreak is that the moths can lay larvae on foods before they are packed and processed.

'These moths lay minute eggs in tiny cracks and holes in the plastic packing,' Dr Ted Edwards, honorary fellow with CSIRO's Australian National Insect Collection, told ABC.net

The larvae then forms into adult moths in household cupboards and pantries.

If this happens, Dr Edwards has a couple of tips.

'If you're concerned about a package that's come in from the supermarket or a package that you've got in the pantry, then freeze if for a couple of weeks to kill the larvae and eggs,' he said.

Dr Edwards also said the first thing to do if you notice a pantry moth infestation is to dispose of any affected foods and to thoroughly wipe down your pantry area.

To avoid any future infestations, he recommends keeping dry foods in sealed containers, preferably screw-top jars.

Source: https://www.msn.com/en-au/news/australia/moth-invasion-why-australian-homes-are-being-plagued-by-out-of-control-flying-insects-after-a-sweltering-summer/ar-BBWiBM1