Marana, Arizona
The summer monsoon season has arrived in southern Arizona, bringing relief from the dry heat with a regular pattern of thunderstorms and rainfall. While the monsoon moisture is welcome, it can also bring hazards like flooding, dust storms, and damage from high winds and lightning.
What is the Monsoon? The monsoon is a seasonal wind shift that draws moisture from the Gulf of Mexico and Gulf of California into the desert Southwest. In southern Arizona, the monsoon officially starts on June 15th and typically lasts into September.
Heavy Rain and Flash Flooding
One of the biggest risks during the monsoon is flash flooding from the heavy rainfall. Dry washes and arroyos can quickly become raging rivers with just an inch or two of precipitation. It’s critical to never drive across a flooded roadway – the saying “Turn Around Don’t Drown” could save your life. Hikers also need to be cautious of sudden downpours that can cause normally tame trails to flood.
Dust Storms and High Winds
The influx of moisture during the monsoon causes extreme differences in temperature and air pressure, resulting in strong outflow winds and dust storms, sometimes called haboobs. These walls of dust can quickly bring zero visibility, making driving extremely hazardous. It’s best to pull completely off the road until it passes.
Lightning Dangers
All thunderstorms produce lightning, a major hazard in our dry climate. Lightning can strike as far as 10 miles away from any rainfall. When thunderstorms approach, seek shelter in a building or hard-topped vehicle immediately.
Protecting Your Home
High winds, blowing dust, and heavy rain can all cause damage to homes and property during the monsoon. Make sure to secure or bring inside any loose outdoor items like patio furniture. Clear roof gutters and downspouts. Check for any openings where water could enter and seal them. Trim dead branches from trees near the house.
Sandbag Locations in Marana
The Town of Marana provides self-fill sandbag locations for residents in preparation and during the monsoon season.
Sandbags can be picked up at the following locations (shovels not provided):
- Marana Heritage River Park: 12280 N. Heritage Park Dr.
- Camino De Manana & Tangerine Rd NE Corner: 4228 W. Tangerine Rd.
- Silverbell Rd & Linda Vista Blvd SE Corner: 8057 W. Linda Vista Blvd
By being prepared and taking proper precautions, we can safely enjoy the cooler temperatures and beautiful sunsets the monsoon brings to our desert community. Stay weather aware and monsoon safe!