Monsoon is a weather condition that is actually defined as a season. In Arizona, we typically experience monsoon storms during the summer. Humidity levels increase, and the season is marked by wind storms, dust storms, and periods of heavy desert rains. These articles will help residents understand Arizona's monsoon, learn how to know when the monsoon has officially started, and get tips about living safely with monsoon activity.
What is the Arizona Monsoon?
© Dan Raustadt
Get the basics about our monsoon, including what defines the monsoon, what you can expect and when you can expect it. Also included here are safety tips for living with the monsoon in Phoenix.
Arizona Monsoon Facts
© Samuel Tyree Williams
When does the Phoenix monsoon start? When does the Phoenix monsoon end? Which was the wettest monsoon on record? Find the answers to these monsoon questions and more!
Dewpoint and Monsoon
© Nicole LeBeau
What is dewpoint? What does it mean when they say a 55 degree dewpoint? Does it really get down to 55 degrees in Phoenix in the summer? (No!) Here's the simple explanation about dewpoints and Phoenix summer storms.
Arizona Historic Dust Storm Photos
Courtesy Environmental Protection Agency
These dust storm photos were taken in 1972, provided courtesy of the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. National Archives and Records and Records Administration.
Arizona Monsoon Safety
© Judy Hedding
You might think that the only serious weather we get in Phoenix is heat, but you'll know differently after you have experienced your first monsoon storm. They can be dangerous, so here is how you know you're in one and what to do when Arizona's monsoon hits.
Beware of Storm Repair Scams
© Dan Raustadt
When summer storms come around, all that wind, dust and rain can cause damage to your home. Beware of bad guys looking to take advantage of your distress by offering cheap home repairs or landscape work after a monsoon storm.
What's a Microburst?
© Michael R. Venokur
Tornadoes are relatively rare in Arizona, but during the monsoon in Phoenix, there are times when people will report tornado activity. Serious tornados are rare in the desert, and It is more likely that damaging winds occurring after a severe thunderstorm in Phoenix is a microburst.
What is a Haboob?
© Judy Hedding
It's a funny name, and it can be amazing to watch, but it isn't much fun if you get caught driving or walking in one. It can be downright dangerous. So what is a haboob?
Flash Floods
© Elizabeth Smith
You might think that only people who live near flowing river beds are in danger of experiencing flash floods, but that's not the case. We experience flash flooding in Phoenix, too. When there's lots of water either standing or flowing, ">don't try to drive through it!
Monsoon Art
Courtesy AllPosters.com
Monsoon can be dangerous, but parts of it can also be beautiful. If you don't believe me, check out these art prints depicting our Arizona monsoon storms.
Monsoon: Short Definition
© Brad Lawrence
Want the basics? Here's the definition of monsoon. If you'd like more details, read on!
