Monsoon Prep
Arizona’s monsoon season officially runs from June 15 through September 30, and while the rain is often welcomed after months of extreme heat, it can also bring strong winds, dust storms, lightning, flash flooding, and unexpected damage to homes and property. A little preparation now can help homeowners avoid costly repairs later. One of the easiest places to start is outside. Take a walk around your property and look for anything that could become airborne during a windstorm. Patio umbrellas, lightweight furniture, decorations, trash cans, and even potted plants can quickly become hazards when strong gusts arrive. Secure loose items or have a plan to bring them inside when storms are forecast. It’s also a good time to inspect your roof and drainage systems. Clear leaves and debris from roof valleys, gutters, and downspouts so rainwater can flow away from the home properly. Check that downspouts direct water away from the foundation and look for any signs of previous leaks or water intrusion that may need attention before the heavier storms arrive.
branches can break during high winds, potentially damaging roofs, fences, vehicles, or neighboring property. Trimming trees and removing weak limbs before storm season is often much easier and less expensive than dealing with the aftermath of storm damage. Inside the home, consider assembling a basic emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, a phone charger, bottled water, and other essentials in case of a power outage. While monsoon-related outages are rare, having supplies readily available can make them much less stressful when they do happen. Drivers should also remember one of Arizona’s most important safety messages: Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Flooded roadways can be deceptively dangerous, and just a small amount of moving water can sweep away a vehicle. If you encounter standing water on the road, find an alternate route and wait for conditions to improve. Finally, take a few minutes to review your homeowner’s insurance policy. Understanding your coverage before a storm occurs can help eliminate surprises if you ever need to file a claim. Monsoon season is one of Arizona’s most unique and dramatic times of year. With a little preparation, homeowners can spend less time worrying about the weather and more time enjoying the cooler temperatures, spectacular sunsets, and much-needed summer rain.
Trees and landscaping deserve attention as well. Dead
10 Estrella Publishing - The Front Porch magazine
July 2026
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