Heatwave hazards: Watch out for snakes as hot weather makes them more active in yards and gardens
Snakes like to sit out in the heat, making an encounter more likely.
As summertime temperatures spike across Raleigh and the larger Triangle region, more snakes are becoming active in gardens, trails, and yards, leading to a noticeable surge in snake bite incidents.
Health systems like WakeMed and UNC Health report having treated nearly 200 snake‐bite cases so far in 2025, an increase typical of summer months but intensified this year by the extreme heat.
For humans, treatment costs can be staggering. UNC Health estimates that administering an initial dose of four to six vials of antivenom can run between $47,000 and $77,000. WakeMed places the price per vial between $12,000 and $13,000, with the total depending on dosage needs and possible repeat dosing.
Insurance often covers much of this expense; however, for uninsured patients or those who haven’t met deductibles, out‑of‑pocket bills can be deeply burdensome.
UNC Health explained to Wral that producing antivenom is “both complex and costly”, with the product also requiring "careful storage and administration, which adds to the expense."
What to do if you are bitten by a snake
For immediate safety, experts at Duke Health and UNC Medical Centers emphasize that after any snake bite—even if the species is unknown—victims should seek emergency medical care without delay. They also warn against driving oneself post‑bite due to risks of dizziness or fainting,
Additional CDC recommendations for pre‑hospital response include:
- Taking a photograph of the snake from a safe distance (to assist medical identification)
- Removing jewellery from near the bite site (to accommodate swelling)
- Gently washing the bite with soap and water
- Avoiding ice, tourniquets, or attempts to suck out venom
Related stories
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.
Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.