Swarms of Midges Stir Up Trouble at Osaka’s World Expo

Image Source : Kyodo

Osaka’s 2025 World Exposition is making headlines—but not just for its dazzling displays and international pavilions. This time, the talk of the town is about an unexpected invader: clouds of tiny, pesky insects.

The Unexpected Guests

Visitors to the Expo have been greeted by swarms of midges—small, non-biting flies—that seem to have made themselves at home on the wooden surfaces of the Grand Ring, a key architectural feature of the event. The sheer number of these insects has left many guests feeling uncomfortable, with some even reporting that the bugs landed on their food or were accidentally swallowed.

While midges are harmless in the sense that they don’t bite, their presence is more than just a nuisance. Dead midges, if inhaled, can trigger asthma attacks or allergic reactions, especially for those with respiratory sensitivities. As a result, health experts are advising vulnerable visitors to consider wearing face masks during their visit.

Where Are They Coming From?

The source of the midge infestation appears to be the Water Plaza, a section of the Expo site where seawater is stored. Experts believe that these particular midges are likely of marine origin, thriving in the damp, salty environment. Unfortunately, this means the problem may persist until late autumn, as midges are known to be active throughout the warmer months.

Tackling the Problem

Expo organizers are not taking the issue lightly. Multiple strategies are being deployed to keep the midges at bay:

• Insecticide Sprays: Targeted spraying in high-traffic and heavily affected areas.
• Growth Inhibitors: Treating spots where rainwater accumulates to prevent midge larvae from developing.
• Insect-Repellent Lights: Installing special lights designed to deter insects from congregating.

Osaka Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura has also called in reinforcements, partnering with Earth Corp., a leading insecticide manufacturer. The company has committed its expertise and advanced technology to help manage the situation and ensure that the Expo runs smoothly for all attendees.

A Fly in the Ointment—But Not the End of the Expo

While the midge swarms are certainly an unwelcome development, Expo officials are confident that their multi-pronged approach will keep the problem under control. For now, visitors are encouraged to stay informed, take precautions if they have respiratory issues, and enjoy the incredible sights and experiences that the World Expo has to offer—just maybe with a little extra vigilance against their tiny, winged neighbors.