Welcome To The Arizona Monsoon

by Nick Coons
Jul 28, 2004

If this is your first summer in Arizona

Arizona	(air-i'-ZON-u')
The State of Arizona comprises the extreme south-western portion of the United States. It is bounded on the north by Utah, on the east by New Mexico, on the south by Mexico, and on the west by California and Nevada.

, you're in for a bit of a treat. As you no doubt have already experienced a bit of the monsoon

Monsoon	(mo'n-SOON)
A season in Arizona of high winds and moisture, normally during July, August, and September. The Arizona Monsoon begins officially after the third consecutive day of the dew point reaching 55 degrees or higher, indicating higher humidity. During the monsoon, dust storms are typical, and rainfall is increased, causing flash floods.

, there is more yet to come. "Monsoon

Monsoon	(mo'n-SOON)
A season in Arizona of high winds and moisture, normally during July, August, and September. The Arizona Monsoon begins officially after the third consecutive day of the dew point reaching 55 degrees or higher, indicating higher humidity. During the monsoon, dust storms are typical, and rainfall is increased, causing flash floods.

" actually refers to the stormy season, not any particular storm. It's this time of year that our winds come from the south and southeast instead of the west and northwest, bringing in moisture from the Gulf of Mexico, and lots of it!

You'll notice that this season is characterized by sudden bursts of wind, walls of dust sweeping through the valley, and downpours of rain that flow from the sky almost instantly. The light shows of the electrical storms are awesome. But be careful, because this natural phenomenon is like any other wonder in this state. It's beautiful to look at, but without the proper precautions, it could be lethal.

You may have always wondered by there were signs along the road indicated, "Do Not Enter When Flooded." Flooded? In the middle of the desert? Yes! In fact, it takes only a few inches of rain to flood an area and start washing cars away. These signs are serious. Visibility while driving can be very low, so it's advised that you pull off to the side of the road or turn into a parking lot if you have difficulty seeing.

The lightning shows can be spectacular, but dangerous. Fallen lamp poles or electrical posts are common with gusting winds.

Part of our fascination with the monsoon

Monsoon	(mo'n-SOON)
A season in Arizona of high winds and moisture, normally during July, August, and September. The Arizona Monsoon begins officially after the third consecutive day of the dew point reaching 55 degrees or higher, indicating higher humidity. During the monsoon, dust storms are typical, and rainfall is increased, causing flash floods.

thunderstorms is that the rest of the year our weather is much more predictable -- Hot and dry! So while I like to spend this time outdoors experiencing this weather that lasts only about two months, our lawyers are making me advise everyone else to stay indoors if possible.