Are you prepared for the Monsoon season? Not sure how to prepare? We have tips from an Arizona native for you!
Arizona’s monsoon season begins in June and continues through September. Monsoon season includes higher humidity, thunderstorms, heavy rain, lightning, hail, high winds, flash flooding, dust storms and extreme heat. Ready or not, monsoon season is right around the corner! Are you prepared for the Monsoon season? Not sure how to prepare? I got you! While Arizona can use the extra rain, The Monsoon can do more damage than good! Follow these tips to ensure you are covered this season.
First, check your roof.
Imagine waking up in the middle of the night with a leaky roof. Trust me, it has happened to plenty of Arizonans during the monsoon season. So before the monsoon hits at full speed, inspect your roof. Repair any cracks or holes as needed.
Trim any big tree branches.
Do you have any plants or trees? Don’t skip this tip if you do! Trim, trim, and trim! Trim any big tree branches that could snap off and damage your roof/house. Stake down young trees that might not make it through an intense storm. And remember, the heavy monsoon rains that often come before the strong winds can loosen the soil and make trees more prone to becoming uprooted. Protect your plants (and your home!) by preparing in advance.
Keep your yard and home protected from possible flooding!
This tip is important, and unfortunately, it is often overlooked. If you’ve noticed drainage issues in your yard that cause pooling of water during a rainstorm, make sure you have it taken care of before the monsoons hit. Assess your home’s drainage as needed.
Seal your home!
Especially if you have drainage issues. Not only can this impact the outside of your home, but it also affects the inside. Seal up all cracks and openings around the base of your home, as water can easily pool up and find its way into your home during a monsoon. Caulk any cracks and use proper weather stripping for your windows and doors, as heavy winds can also push water in.
Get familiar with your home’s electrical panel.
The last thing you want during a power outage is to be stumbling around in the dark because you do not know where your breaker panel is. It is important to not only know where it is, but it be familiar with your home’s electrical panel. Take the time to familiarize yourself with your electrical panel and to have all your circuit breaker switches clearly marked.
Keep your car safe!
Parking your car on the street or in the driveway could put it at risk during the monsoon storms, since flying branches and falling trees are common occurrences when the wild weather comes to town. Make room in the garage for your car and keep it safe from flying objects, as well as hail, rain and wind.
Sign up for alerts.
We also encourage you to sign up for free weather alerts from the National Weather Service.
If you have pets, be sure to read What You Can Do To Help Your Pet During Monsoon Season.
And of course, the easiest tip to remember is “Pull Aside, Stay Alive.” Never drive in a dust storm.
