I went outside earlier today because I noticed that the sky is so cloudy. I took photos at our backyard and then after 2 hours I went back again and took more photos. Living here in Arizona when seeing sky like this is a bit scary. We like rain here because we don't get much but the monsoon is scary. So I look for tips on how to stay safe during this time of the year, the monsoon season.
A Monsoon is caused by a combination of heat and moisture. Arizona is in “Monsoon Season” when there are more then three consecutive days with dew points above 55°. Arizona averages over 50 monsoon days each year and normally occur in July and August. Monsoon storms can range from minor dust storms to violent thunderstorms carrying heavy winds, dry lightening and/or high volume rain. These storms can cause flash floods that are potentially deadly.
If you are caught outdoors during a monsoon storm here are some safety tips:
• Take signs that read “DO NOT ENTER WHEN FLOODED” seriously. All caution signs should be observed and respected. Even if water is rushing across the road or wash looks shallow, it may be very well so deep that even high clearance vehicle will get stuck or washed down stream requiring emergency intervention.
• If driving, slow down and never use your cruise control during a rainstorm. If your vehicle hydroplanes, the cruise control may try to accelerate while the vehicle has uneven traction causing you to lose control.
• To avoid being struck by lightening stay away from open fields, high land, trees, poles, other tall objects and standing bodies of water, including swimming pools. Stay in your home or vehicle if possible.
• Do not huddle closely together with other people spread out.







