Severe Weather + Floods All Over The World >> Monsoon Season in Arizona

This Week brings an announcement from the Arizona Department of Emergency & Military Affairs
Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey has proclaimed June 12-17 Monsoon Awareness Week in Arizona in anticipation of the 2016 monsoon and summer severe weather season.
Arizona’s most active weather season is the monsoon, which begins in mid-June and ends in late September. The monsoon is characterized not only by extreme heat like parts of the State experienced last weekend, but also an increase in moisture, which drives the humidity up. These conditions can produce massive thunderstorms, including heavy rain, high winds and lightning, and potentially trigger dust storms, flash floods and wildfires.

Arizona Emergency Information Network

c/o Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs

5636 E. McDowell Road   
Phoenix, AZ 85008 http://www.12news.com/news/local/arizona/gov-proclaims-june-12-17-monsoon-awareness-week-in-arizona/238996937

The word monsoon describes a seasonal shift in wind direction from the west or northwest in the winter to a southerly or southeasterly direction in the summer. The change draws moisture from the Eastern Pacific northward into the desert Southwest, where our extreme heat helps turn it into thunderstorms, including lightning, dust storms and heavy rains. The monsoon typically arrives in mid to late June over northwest Mexico, and early July over the southwest U.S. Once the monsoon is underway, mountain ranges, including the Mogollon Rim, contribute to the development of daily thunderstorms and lightning.
"Between the extreme heat and threat of flash flooding, summers in Arizona can be dangerous, even life-threatening for uninformed people. Know the signs of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. People over 65, children under five, and those with pre-existing medical conditions are at high risk for heat-related illnesses. Reduce exposure to the sun and heat during peak hours.

When it does rain, do not underestimate the power of water. Never drive into a flooded wash or road. It only takes six inches of water to stall your vehicle and 12 inches to float it.
“Monsoon storms can cause serious personal injury and property damage,” said Wendy Smith-Reeve, Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs deputy director. “I strongly encourage the Whole Community to take the necessary steps to prepare themselves, their family, and property.”
DEMA has partnered with the National Weather Service; the Arizona departments of Health Services, Homeland Security, Insurance, Public Safety, Transportation and Water Resources; and The Salvation Army to advocate severe weather preparedness.
  

READ https://ein.az.gov/monsoon



Overall, summer is the most dangerous time of year--weather-wise--in Arizona.