Monsoon in Southern Arizona: Essential Tips for Visitors (and Residents!)
We got the scoop from Tucson's most experienced local news meteorologist for an in-depth guide to #MonsoonMagic.
"I just tell people any time you head out the door during monsoon just kind of be prepared. If your travel takes you across town you may start out on the dry side and end up trying to get through a street that is flooded with four feet of water and you didn’t even realize it had been raining."
--13 News First Alert Chief Meteorologist Erin Christiansen
Stay safe during monsoon. Follow these guidelines
- Be prepared. Follow weather updates. If heavy rains, thunderstorms, and microbursts are in the forecast, try to avoid driving, hiking, or being outside during inclement weather.
- Pull over. If you’re caught in a heavy rainstorm or dust storm while driving and visibility is low, safely exit onto the shoulder and turn off your lights. This will prevent other drivers from following your car into the ditch and reduce the likelihood of drivers crashing into your vehicle.
- Avoid washes and rivers during heavy rains. These waterways are prone to flooding. If you encounter fast-rising water or flooding, plan an alternative route. It only takes one foot of moving water to carry a car. If you encounter a flooding roadway or wash, turn around.
- Never drive through or around barricades. The “Stupid Motorist Law” is an actual Arizona law designed to prevent people from traveling into flooded areas. Lawbreakers who ignore road warnings and purposely drive in flooded areas can face fines of up to $2,000.
- Protect your home. Talk to your insurance agent about flood insurance and determine if you would benefit from coverage. (Your existing insurance policy may not cover flood damage.)
- Safeguard your environment. If you live in an area prone to flooding, have an evacuation plan. Stock up on materials like sandbags, plywood, and plastic sheeting to prevent and or mitigate flood damage. For more homeowner safety tips, click here.
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