8 tips for camping during Tucson's monsoon season
- Updated
Don't let this year's monsoon cast a dark cloud over your summer camping trips in and around Tucson!
These tips, provided by the National Weather Service, can help make sure you stay safe outdoors.Β
1. Always be aware of your surroundings
Updated
A lightning bolt hits northwest of Gates Pass on July 19, 2023.
Thunderstorms can develop sporadically and lightning can strike at any moment. If thunder is audible, you are close enough to be struck by lightning.Β
2. Seek shelter if needed
Updated
Several bolts strike in the foothills of the southern Rincon Mountains as an intense monsoon cell rolls into Vail, Ariz., July 30, 2021,
During a thunderstorm, avoid exposed and elevated surfaces and abandon tents. Instead, find a hard-topped vehicle or structure to take shelter in.Β
3. 30 minute rule
Updated
Clouds stripe the western sky just after a monsoon shower at Saguaro National Park East. Tucson experienced its third-wettest monsoon on record in 2021.
Wait 30 minutes after the last rumble of thunder before you leave shelter to avoid any remaining lightning.
4. Watch for flash flooding
Updated
CaΓ±ada del Oro Wash flowing with runoff from several monsoon storms as seen from the bridge at La Cholla Blvd. on July 14, 2021.
Low-lying areas sparse with vegetation can be a bad place to set up camp due to easy flooding. Don't camp in washes even if they initially appear dry.Β
5. Don't enter a flood
Updated
A woman climbs out of a pickup truck as Northwest Fire District firefighters perform a rescue in the CaΓ±ada del Oro washΒ on Aug. 10, 2021.
Don't try to cross flowing streams or drive through flooded areas.Β
6. Watch for heat dangers
Updated
The sunsets behind the Tucson Mountains as seen from S X-9 Ranch Rd. East of Tucson, Ariz. on August 23, 2020.
During hot days, always prepare yourself with plenty of fluids, sunscreen, loose garments and other necessities to keep cool.Β
7. Always keep an eye out for the weather
Updated
The Rillito River rolls along just west of Swan Road after a powerful storm early July 23, 2021.
Prepare yourself for the elements with the proper equipment including a NOAA weather radio and subscribe to severe weather alerts on your cell phone.
8. Look at the sky
Updated
A brief monsoon storm throws a rainbow over the valley, Tucson, Ariz., July 1, 2020. View to the southeast from Greasewood.
Keep an eye on the sky and scan all directions for clouds or signs of storms moving in.Β
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