New Resource Offers Monsoon Safety Tips

Arizona summers create a “perfect storm” of meteorological conditions for generating the monsoon season, a period of frequent thunderstorms that lasts from mid-June through the end of September. Monsoon thunderstorms are “convective,” meaning they’re caused by warm air rising. During this season, temperatures increase, the ground heats up, and southerly winds carry moisture into the state from the Pacific Ocean. Hot, moist air condenses miles above the ground, then rains down in intense bursts.

The season accounts for over half the state’s annual precipitation. Communities depend on the monsoon—its rains replenish groundwater and cut through the extreme heat. 

However, lightning, flash flooding, high winds, and other hazards mean that monsoons can also be dangerous. People tend to underestimate the power and speed of floodwaters—just six inches of swiftly moving water can knock an adult off their feet, according to the National Weather Service, and 12 inches can carry away an average car. 

The WRRC’s new “Preventing Monsoon Damage” checklist can help keep you and your property safe, whatever the weather. The checklist includes advice for planning ahead as the season approaches and preparing for imminent storms; precautions include signing up for emergency alerts and securing outdoor furniture or bringing it inside. The checklist also has warnings on what to do during a storm and when dealing with damage after the storm passes. If caught out in a monsoon thunderstorm, seek shelter (NOT under a tree!), avoid flooded areas, and beware of downed power lines or other sources of electric current.

Review the Checklist