Monsoon Damage
A monsoon is a seasonal variation of wind, cloud cover and precipitation that is controlled by the annual cycle of the sun. In climates that are influenced by monsoons, most of the annual precipitation occurs during the monsoon season. In the United States, monsoons generally occur in the Southwest including Arizona, New Mexico and Nevada. Monsoon season in this area generally runs from July to September.
Extreme effects
Monsoons are generally known for the extreme amounts of precipitation produced in a short period of time. During the wet months of July through September, monsoons can produce an inch of rain per hour. The results can lead to dangerous hazards such as flash flooding and lightning.
The predictability factor
One of the challenges of preparing for or reacting to a monsoon is the very unpredictable nature of this weather event. Monsoons move fast. A cloud that appears to be miles away can move over you in a few short hours and produce dangerous amounts of rainfall. That's why it's important to take certain precautions when outdoors during monsoon season.
• When outside, be aware that these storms generally strike in the afternoon.
• If you are on a hike or away from your home or car, carry a battery-powered radio along to keep track of sudden changes in the weather. If thunderstorm clouds seem to be gathering or moving quickly, use your radio to see if any warnings have been issued.
Be prepared to move quickly to a safe area.
Flash floods
One of the most significant hazards produced by a monsoon
is flash flooding. A flash flood can occur in a matter of minutes
which is why these events can be so devastating. The Red Cross
reminds us to understand important watches and warnings that
may be issued during a monsoon:
• Flash flood watch - If your local weather officials issue a flash flood watch, this means that flash flooding is possible in your area. In this case, stay alert to signs of flash flooding, continue to listen to official advisories and be ready to move to higher ground at a moment's notice.
• Flash flood warning - If your local weather officials issue a flash flood warning, this means that flash flooding is occurring or will occur very soon. In this case, you must act immediately and quickly to move to higher ground. Stay away from rivers, streams, creeks and storm drains.
• If you are in your car, do not drive into flooded areas. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), just six inches of water can reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling. A foot of water can float many vehicles.
• If flood waters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
Lightning
Monsoons can also produce lightning strikes which can cause severe injury or death. The American Red Cross offers the following guidelines to stay safe during lightning strikes:
Before lightning strikes
• Keep an eye on the sky. Be aware of darkening skies, flashes of light, increasing wind and the sound of thunder.
• If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning. Go to a safe shelter immediately.
• Listen to local weather advisories.
Protecting yourself outside
• Go to an open, low-lying place away from trees, poles or metal objects. Make sure the place you pick is not subject to flooding.
• Be a very small target. Squat low to the ground and place your hands on your knees with your head between them. Make yourself the smallest target possible.
• Do not lie flat on the ground. This will make you a larger target.
If someone is struck by lightning
People struck by lightning carry no electrical charge and can be handled safely.
• Call for help immediately. Dial 9-1-1 or your local Emergency Medical Services (EMS) number.
• The injured person has received an electrical shock and may be burned, both where they were struck and where the electricity left their body. • Check for burns in both places. Being struck by lightning can also cause nervous system damage, broken bones and loss of hearing or eyesight.
• Give first aid. If breathing has stopped, begin rescue breathing. If the heart has stopped beating, a trained person should give CPR. If the person has a pulse and is breathing, look and care for other possible injuries.
Additional resources
For more information about monsoons as well as safety and recovery tips, check out: