According to the NC State Extension, the type of yellow jackets seen in North Carolina build their nests in the ground. According to Oregon State University, their numbers grow during a drought.

Severe flooding in western North Carolina ... colonies of yellow jackets, raising the risk of stings. The rain and floodwater ...

Answer: Unlike honey bees, yellow jackets are not important ... Wasps commonly nest on buildings or in retaining walls, trees, and the ground. When wasp nests are found close to where people ...