Monsoon

Basics of the Arizona Monsoon and Desert Meteorology

From the Arizona State University Climate Office.

Arizona resides within the North American Monsoon geographical arena. The monsoon season typically begins in early June when active thunderstorms build in central and southern Mexico. In mid- to late June, the thunderstorms move toward the International Border and into Arizona. The monsoon is a season where the dry, westerly winds (winds coming from the west) that typically persist through fall, winter and spring shift to moist, southerly winds (winds coming from the south). The incoming moisture helps build thunderstorm activity across the state.

Stay Weather Aware and Prepare for Arizona's Monsoon Season

Stay weather aware and prepare for Arizona’s monsoon season.

While it may feel like summer is just kicking off, the monsoon season has officially started and that means some safety measures should be mixed in with your summer fun.

What is the North American Monsoon? The monsoon involves changes in seasonal winds that can cause extreme weather conditions including extreme heat, dust storms, sudden downpour, lightning, flash flooding, and wildfires. By learning more about how monsoon weather can impact your health and taking steps to be prepared, you can ensure you and your loved ones have a safe monsoon season.

This article was published on the Arizona Department of Health Services website on June 20th, 2023.

If you are new to Arizona or unfamiliar with the monsoon season, this information can be lifesaving for you and your family.

National Weather Service - Monsoon Safety

Although the Monsoon brings welcome rains and relief from the summer heat, the thunderstorms that come with the Monsoon bring their own hazards. In fact, this is the most dangerous time of year weather-wise in the Southwest. So, before the season gets underway, it is a very good idea to review these safety tips.

Before the Storm, check the weather forecast before leaving for extended periods outdoors. Always keep an eye to the sky and watch for signs of approaching storms. If a storm is approaching, keep a NOAA Weather Radio or AM/FM radio with you or a cell phone capable of browsing the web.

If a Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect, be mindful that severe thunderstorms could quickly develop. When a Severe Thunderstorm Warning has been issued, outdoor activities should be postponed as this is your best way to avoid being caught in a dangerous situation.

Sandbags - how to find them

Pinal County sandbag information

Sandbags are available for Pinal County Residents. Pinal County only provides sandbags and sand. You will need to bring your own shovel to load the bags. There is a limit of 25 bags per household.

Go the following site for Pinal County sandbag locations: Sandbag-Contacts---Locations-Within-Pinal-County-PDF

NOTE: The most likely location for City of Maricopa area residents is likely to be the Hidden Valley Maintenance Area.

Use the following link to view a very good Pinal County video on sandbag preparation and use: Monsoon Season | Pinal County, AZ

(Check the bottom of the page for the video link)

City of Maricopa sandbag locations:

Firehouse Station 571

• 20945 N. Porter Road, Maricopa, AZ 85138
• Sand pile available in the station parking lot – gates open 7 am – 7 pm
• Bring your own shovel
• Ring the station doorbell to get unfilled bags (If not out on a call)

NOTE: Some prefilled bags are available, but they have been exposed to the heat and sun and could be somewhat fragile and possibly break.

Firehouse Station 572

1. 36930 W. Bowlin Road, Maricopa, AZ 85138
2. Sand pile available in front (visitor) parking lot – 24 hours per day
3. Bring your own shovel (one is currently outside but there is no guarantee it will be there
4. A box of unfilled sandbags is available at the sand pile

Firehouse Station 574

1. 44925 W. Alterra Parkway, Maricopa AZ 85139
2. Sandpile available in the statin parking lot – gates open 7 am – 7 pm
3. Bring your own shovel
4. Ring the station doorbell to get unfilled bags (if not out on a call)

Firehouse Station 575

1. The station has no sand
2. However, there is a pile of sand available in front of the Public Works office next door (45755 W. Edison Road, Maricopa, AZ 85139)
3. Bring your own shovel
4. Unfilled sandbags are available in the Public Works Office - Monday -Thursday 7 am – 6 pm

Guide to the Arizona Monsoon for First Timers

Welcome to Phoenix.

You breezed through your first winter — we know, 75 degrees and sunny in January was tough — but you did it. You really liked spring, when you were able to get outside, and even though it's starting to get a little toasty now you're thinking you can handle summer. Because, really, how much hotter can it get?

But you're starting to wonder about this monsoon you've been hearing about.

Even before you got here, people probably showed you pictures of torrential rains flooding the streets, clouds of dust with what appeared to be faces in them swallowing the city and bolts of lightning that stretch for hundreds of miles.

This June 3rd, 2020, article from the Arizona Republic helps to introduce the Monsoon Season to new Arizona residents.

The Best Ways to Experience a Monsoon in Phoenix

If you've spent any time in Greater Phoenix during the summer, you've probably been in the presence of our famous monsoons — a quick and intense storm full of rain or dust. In the United States, these storms are unique to the Southwest, and they're a sight most locals are more than excited to experience.

Of course, monsoons can be dangerous, but if you follow these safety tips, you can enjoy the storm from the comfort of the indoors. Learn more about the dangers of monsoon season and how to keep yourself safe here.