Preparing for the AZ Monsoon Season
One of the reasons Phoenix and Scottsdale are so popular amongst its residents is the almost year-round sunshine, even if it does get a little toasty in the summer months. However, during the months of July and August, the monsoon season can often bring incredibly strong thunderstorms and dust storms that can make your commute and home life difficult. Here are a few of our best tips for being prepared for the monsoon storms and the challenges they bring for desert dwellers.
1. Buy Umbrellas!
We know, they probably won’t come in handy most of the year. But when the rain comes in sideways in the ten minutes between parking by your office building and entering your workspace, they’re worth their weight in gold. Even a small, $10 umbrella you find at Walgreens or Amazon will fit in the door compartment in most cars and can save your hair and clothes from a soaking. Always better to be prepared.
2. Stay Informed
One of the most frustrating aspects of Monsoon storms is how quickly they seem to spring from the sky. Thanks to technology, we now have the capability of setting up notifications on our phones or office computer to let us know when a cell is developing and within close proximity of your home or office. Taking these precautions will keep you well-informed whenever the weather takes a sudden turn before you hit the road.
3. Have Backup Power/Light Handy
The monsoon season is the most common season for Phoenix residents to experience power outages, and you want to be prepared. Flashlights and candles still come in very handy, as well as a fully-charged power bank for you and your families cell phones and tablets. Sure, a board game is still a fun activity to do in candlelight, but this is 2018; plan accordingly.
4. Remove Potential Hazards From Your Yard
Landscaping in the summer months may not be an appealing chore, but it sure beats having a branch from your Mesquite tree snap and create a hole in your roof or car. Make sure to trim up and properly store anything that may cause severe damage to your home or property when the winds and rain kick up.
5. Play It Safe When the Storms Hit
Thunderstorms against a desert background can be a beautiful sight to see, but it's important to keep yourself and your family safe. While the patio is a great viewpoint, it doesn't offer much in protection against potential hazards. Staying indoors during a storm is an ideal place to relax and enjoy the lightning and sky show.
The monsoon season brings plenty of benefits to the desert: rainwater, lower temperatures, and incredible sunsets with rainbows (always a great combination if you get to see one). Taking a few simple measures will ensure this and future monsoon seasons don't become a bummer.
Do you have any tips for protecting your Phoenix or Scottsdale real estate? Comment below!