Monsoon season lasts in the Southwest from mid-June to the end of September. It is an annual event that brings in heavy rains, winds, lightning, and humidity. Monsoons are dangerous, yet life-giving, and they are a welcome addition to the hot Southwest summers. Read on for more fast facts about monsoon season.
It is not just rainfall.
In the Southwest, monsoons automatically bring heavy rainfall to mind. However, the term monsoon refers to a type of large weather pattern. The monsoon season is meant to encompass a seasonal time when there is a large shift in winds, and the heavy rainfall is a result of those shifts. Due to these wind shifts and increased moisture, the rains often come in short bursts every day and can cause large dust storms—known as haboobs—to form before a rain begins. These are all considered part of the monsoon season.
It happens across the world.
Arizonans may believe monsoons are unique to the Southwest, but these heavy rains occur throughout the world. Since monsoon seasons refer to a variety of factors, almost all of Earth’s continents experience some form of a monsoon season. Africa, Asia, Australia, and North America are the most common areas, but Europe will have monsoon seasons as well.
It can be life-giving.
Throughout the monsoon season, the Southwest experiences a boom in plant and animal life. The heavy rainfall and resulting replenishment of groundwater causes all plants, trees, and cacti to grow and flower into beautiful colors. Insects, birds, reptiles, and mammals also take advantage of the extra water and increased plant life.
It can be dangerous.
Though monsoon rains are often very quick, they can cause massive flooding, lightning, and heavy winds. Cars and people are often stuck in flooded washes, trees become overturned or uprooted, and people can be swept away in flash floods. It is important to prepare property and vehicles against all possibilities during the monsoon season.
Keep plants and trees safe against the monsoons with the help of Complete Landscaping. We can ensure trees withstand and benefit from the monsoons. Call us at (520) 323-8918 to learn more.