Since 2008, the National Weather Service has identified Tucson’s official monsoon season as starting June 15 and ending Sept. 30. The storms bring much needed moisture to the desert, but often come with lightning, high winds, flash flooding, hail and driving conditions that can be dangerous.
While the 2020 monsoon season was labeled a “non-soon”, after being the second-driest summer on record, 2021 brings the promise of summer rains.
Here is a short check list to prepare for this annual event.
Emergency Contact:
Are you away for the summer? Have you left emergency contact information with our HOA Manager? Storm damage to your home can be lessened if we can contact you quickly; so you can begin the process of damage mitigation and repair.
Your home:
- Check the condition of your roof and gutters.
Broken or missing tiles; and clogged drainage ways can cause roof leakages. - Keep a working flash light or two handy for power outages; candles, if you’re the romantic type.
- Battery operated radio.
- Cell Phone Booster Battery.
Unlike landlines, cell towers may or may not work during power outages; be aware that your cell phone may not function. Your cell phone definitely will not work on a dead battery. Keep a booster battery handy and charged.
Tip: You can charge your phone with your car’s USB outlet too.
Your yard:
- Trim large over hanging branches.
High winds and downdrafts can split or topple a tree. - “Beans” – Clean-up your yard before storm water carries these beans down the street to your neighbor’s yard.
- Wind-blown yard furniture is a hazard. Anchor it down or stow it away.
Additional Monsoon Information Resources
Original Posting: June 2018