Monsoon

Monsoon Outlook

What is expected for 2023?

What’s in store for this year’s Monsoon? The last two summers were very active storm-wise and brought above normal rainfall to the region. Can we make it three in a row? Watch our Monsoon Outlook to find all the answers.

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Rainfall Map

The District has installed and maintains 355 automated precipitation gages throughout Maricopa and surrounding counties which measure the amount and timing of rainfall in real-time. These data are transmitted to the District via radio and stored on the base computers. 

Rainfall Map

SANDBAGS

Sandbags can be used as temporary protection from flooding. When preparing sandbags, remember these tips:

  • Sandbags should be 1/2 to 2/3 full
  • Stack sandbags in a brick pattern
  • Focus on the entrances areas of the house like front doors and low entrances

How to Use Sandbags to Protect Your Home (VIDEO)

Sandbag Map

travel-bag

EMERGENCY PREP

It is important to prepare for an emergency during the Monsoon. 

Here are some things to remember when preparing for the Monsoon:

  1. Create a family plan.
  2. Prepare an emergency kit with at least 3 days’ worth of food and water.
  3. Prepare your car. Change your windshield wipers. Check your tires.

Emergency Kit Checklist

More information on Emergency Prep

Dust Storms

Thunderstorms frequently produce a variety of wind types. These wind types can create dust storms or “haboobs” often coming with no warning and significantly reducing visibility.

Generally one to three dust storms will move into the Phoenix area in a year lasting a few minutes to an hour. You can endure these brief but powerful windstorms if you know how to react.

  • Do not drive into or through a dust storm.
  • Do not wait until there is low visibility to take action. Immediately check traffic around you and slowly and safely pull over as far as you can, completely off the paved portion of the roadway. Do not stop in a travel lane or the emergency lane. Completely exit the highway if possible.
  • Turn off all of your lights, including emergency lights. Put the car in park and set the emergency brake. Take your foot off of the brake pedal. Other motorists may tend to follow taillights in an attempt to get through the dust storm, and may strike your vehicle from behind.
  • Stay in the vehicle with your seat belt buckled and wait for the storm to pass.

More information on dust storms

dust storm
heat

EXTREME HEAT

Maricopa County frequently exceeds temperatures of 110 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer months. Extreme Heat can cause serious or even fatal medical conditions.

  • Check on family and friends who are at high risk for heat-related illness.
  • Bring pets indoors. Make sure they have plenty of water.
  • Go to a designated public shelter if your home loses power during periods of extreme heat.
  • Postpone outdoor activities.
  • Drink lots of water, even if you aren’t thirsty. Always have water with you. Avoid sugar, caffeine, and alcohol.
  • Limit sun exposure and apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes prior to going outside.
  • Try to work during early morning hours and take frequent breaks.
  • Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
  • Recognize symptoms of heat illness. Seek help immediately.
  • NEVER leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles. LOOK BEFORE YOU LOCK!

Heat Relief Station Map

More information on extreme heat

MCDOT ROAD CLOSURES

When flooding happens, low water crossings can be uncrossable. Be ready to find another route when the roads are flooded and NEVER drive around barricades.

Road Closure Map

MCDOT Road Closure Map
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Flooding

Even though Maricopa County is in a desert, flooding is a very real threat. The intense rains of summer monsoon storms bring flash flooding you usually dry washes.

Six inches of water can knock you off your feet. Two feet of water can float away your car. 

Many of the parks and recreation areas you enjoy are also basins or channels. When fulfilling their flood control purpose, they are dangerous to play in.

Stay out of flooded areas.

Flood Insurance Information

MOSQUITOES

Mosquitoes have a serious impact on the health, comfort and economic welfare of people. Some species transmit diseases to man and animals. In Maricopa County, there is particular concern with mosquito-borne encephalitis (sleeping sickness). Large numbers of mosquitoes interfere with outdoor work and recreation, cause livestock to lose weight and lower property values.


Learn more about vector control

Fight the Bite Website 



Fight The Bite Collage

FLOOD RECOVERY

If you have experienced flooding here are some steps to get you on the road to recovery.

  1. Call your insurance company.
  2. Avoid additional risk.
  3. Take pictures.
  4. Protect your health.
  5. Remove the water.

Flood Recovery Information