Arizona Monsoon Thunderstorms

What is a Monsoon?

Mention the word “monsoon” to a Phoenix resident, and memories of heavy localized rain, wind gusts, power outages, flash floods and dust storms quickly come to mind.  While most residents primarily think of a thunder storm, the monsoon season is more tied to wind shift rather than precipitation. The term “monsoon” comes from the Arabic “mausim” which means “season” or “wind shift.” During the summer wind shift which brings increased moisture and low pressure in the valley, you have essential ingredients of the monsoon season.

Defining the monsoon season

When I first arrived in Arizona, I asked why a summer rain storm is called a monsoon storm.  The answer I received was that the Arizona monsoon seaon officially begins after the third consecutive day of a dew point above 55 degrees.  On average, this occurred on July 7th and lasted for 2 months.  Was this too confusing? Too technical?  Apparently so because in 2008 the National Weather Service decided to make it simpler and set firm dates for the beginning and end of the Arizona monsoon season.  Since 2008, June 15th is the first day of the monsoon, and September 30th is the last day. During July-August-September the average rainfall is 2.65 inches.

Stupid motorist law and flash floods

Stupid Motorist LawIt may be hard to believe but with the heavy localized rain of a storm during the monsoon season, flooding is a common occurrence. And frequently, flash floods make streets impassable.  Does this stop drivers from attempting to cross a flooded street? Nope. So what happens when a driver attempts to cross a flooded street that is barricaded and they get stuck? They can be fined under what is known as the “Stupid Motorist Law”, ARS 28:910, which went into effect in 1995. This is intended to protect “stupid” motorist, first responders, and help absorb the cost of a rescue.  A helicopter in a rescue situation can cost up to $600/hour in addition to the fire department and police officers.Power Ranch Splash Pad

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$439,000 :: 10732 W Granada Road, Avondale AZ, 85392

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3 beds, 3 baths
Home size: 1,668 sq ft
Lot Size: 5,663 sq ft
Added: 06/01/23, Last Updated: 10/02/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6563374
Community: Crystal Gardens
Tract: Crystal Gardens
The price of this listing was last reduced on 10/2/2023 by 0%
Status: Active


BEAUTIFUL RARE TO FIND PROPERTY! WITH 2 MASTER BEDROOMS AND AND A GUEST BEDROOMS 3 FULL BATHS! IN THE BEAUTIFUL COMMUNITY OF CRYSTAL GARDENS WITH A SPACIOUS LIVING ROOM WITH FIRE PLACE, LARGE EAT-IN KITCHEN WITH LAKE VIEWSGRANITE COUNTER TOPS AND UPDATED CABINETRY. Entertainers backyard with putting green and large concrete patio overlooking the lake. Wonderful lake front path for walking and biking. Great location just minutes to I-10 and the 101.

Listed with HomeSmart


Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!


$420,000 :: 4741 N SCOTTSDALE Road #G101, Scottsdale AZ, 85251

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1 bed, 1 bath
Home size: 2,741 sq ft
Lot Size: 2,614 sq ft
Added: 10/02/23, Last Updated: 10/02/23
Property Type: Condo/Townhouse/Co-Op
MLS Number: 6612632
Community: SAFARI DRIVE 1 1ST AMD
Tract: SAFARI DRIVE 1 1ST AMD
Status: Active


UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY IN THE SAFARI CONDOMINIUM COMMUNITY! This open loft floor plan located on the ground floor boast 2,790 square feet that is virtually a blank slate for the new owner. The unit has never been built out and now the opportunity is there to be created. Just imagine what you can create starting with this perfect shell built with concrete, glass, and steel construction.. Make it a 1, 2, 3+ bedroom. Create your dream home just steps from the canal, bike paths, Fashion Square, award wining restaurants, art galleries, and all Old Town Scottsdale has to offer. Offers will be reviewed and selected Monday October 9th at 5pm.

Listed with HomeSmart


Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!


$419,900 :: 2231 W KIOWA Circle, Mesa AZ, 85202

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2 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,665 sq ft
Lot Size: 8,712 sq ft
Added: 09/28/23, Last Updated: 09/28/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6610210
Community: DOBSON SHORES UNIT 4
Tract: DOBSON SHORES UNIT 4
Status: Active


Nestled within a serene cul-de-sac setting, exceptional waterfront living awaits! This 2 bedroom home features a great room, den, and fireplace! Inside is a vast great room that seamlessly blends living and dining areas. With a huge living area, it's the ideal canvas for creating memorable moments with love ones. The home features an elegant formal dining area while the kitchen boasts granite countertops, combining both style and functionality. This home's crowning jewel is its waterfront location, offering breathtaking views. The combination of waterfront serenity, versatile living spaces, and elegant features make it a rare find. Don't miss the chance to make this captivating residence your own!

Listed with My Home Group Real Estate


Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!


$449,999 :: 10810 W ALMERIA Road, Avondale AZ, 85392

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3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,870 sq ft
Lot Size: 5,663 sq ft
Added: 06/09/23, Last Updated: 06/09/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6566790
Community: CRYSTAL GARDENS PARCEL 2A
Tract: CRYSTAL GARDENS PARCEL 2A
Status: Active


This is your opportunity to own 2 lakefront homes right next to each other in the highly sought after neighborhood of Crystal Gardens! Both homes have the exact same floorpan featuring 1,870sqft, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a den, and a 2-car garage. This open floorpan features neutral tile and laminate wood flooring and vaulted ceilings. The master bedroom is very spacious with views of the lake and the amazing Arizona sunsets. Step into the Master Bathroom and you will find the dual vanity, walk in showe, and a separate bathtub. The Newer AC keeps this home cool and efficient whilethe nice-sized backyard provides a relaxing atmosphere with beautiful lake views. From the backyard you will also have private access to the lake and walking/running/biking trails. This community offers catch

Listed with My Home Group Real Estate


Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!


$405,000 :: 10876 W SAN LAZARO Drive #10, Arizona City AZ, 85123

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3 beds, 2 baths
Home size: 1,840 sq ft
Lot Size: 7,841 sq ft
Added: 05/09/23, Last Updated: 05/09/23
Property Type: Single Family
MLS Number: 6554283
Community: ARIZONA CITY UNIT TEN
Tract: ARIZONA CITY UNIT TEN
Status: Active


Beautifully maintained home on the desirable Paradise Lake in Arizona City! 3 bedroom 2 bath split floor plan. Enjoy the view of the lake from the living room or from the large covered patio in the backyard. This Open floor plan features a breakfast bar, large laundry room, pot shelves throughout, 3 pantry's, 3 car Garage, Solar, and so much more! Master Suite features Separate tub and shower, double sinks, Walk in Closet with custom shelving. Backyard features extended covered patio, Synthetic Grass, for the always maintained yard, storage shed, and Gazebo area. This home won't last!

Listed with Ivory Towers Realty


Brought to you by Gordon Baker, Remax Alliance Group. Call me today at 480-326-8571, or visit my website at www.myhomeinaz.com/!


 

 

 

 

 

Valley firefighters carried out several water rescues in the morning. Cost for emergency personnel at a water rescue starts around $4,000.

 

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