My family moved to Phoenix in 1969, and some of my best summer memories are of the monstrous dust storms and huge, torrential rains. When it was over, we’d run outside and play in the rivers of water running down the street.
When I talk to newcomers to the Phoenix area and mention that we have “monsoons“, I get inquisitive looks. Easy to understand why. Desert and rain just don’t seem to go together.
I did a little research this morning, and discovered that the term monsoon is actually linked to a shift in wind. Normally, our winds come from the west or northwest, but in the summer they shift so that they are coming from the south or southwest, which brings moister air into the state.
From the Basics of the Arizona Monsoon & Desert Meteorology web site, I also learned:
….the term “monsoons” as in “when the monsoons arrive …” is a meteorological no-no. There is no such beast. The word should be used in the same manner that “summer” is used. Consequently, the proper terminology is “monsoon thunderstorms” not “monsoons.”
This site has lots of technical weather details related to our monsoon season, plus you can learn how to be a weather spotter. I also discovered gustadoes, which are a combination of a “dust devil” and a “tornado“. You can also read about the differences between a wet and a dry monsoon storm.
Up until a year ago, the beginning of monsoon season was marked by three consecutive days of dew points averaging 55°F or higher.
Now, the National Weather Service (NWS) has determined that:
“….the monsoon “season” will start on June 15th every year and end on September 30th, regardless of weather conditions. In years past, the first three consecutive days with average dew points of 55 degrees marked the beginning of the monsoon—typically in early July. And the monsoon ended with the last string of three days with such damp dew points–usually in September.”
Sarah Walters, 12 News Today AM meteorologist, tells me that the dated monsoon season is now officially called “The Arizona Monsoon Season“, and she sent me a couple excellent weather links to share:
Safety can be an issue with monsoons, so if you are outside, know what to do, in the case of lighting, dust storms, and flooding, so I’ve included a few links that I hope you find helpful in being prepared.
Monsoons & What to do if… - Tips on staying safe in a monsoon from the City of Scottsdale
Safety Tips from the Salt River Project (SRP) - Including what to do if you are caught inside or out.
Monsoon Safety from the American Red Cross – additional tips for what to do in a flash flood
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