Monsoon Season Ramps Up: Lightning, Dust and Flash Flood Threats All Rising

The start of the North American monsoon season is going to usher in more frequent rain events in the western U.S. However, the much-needed moisture will also come with the risk of blowing dust, lightning dangers, and the increased threat of wildfires.

Heavy Rain, Dust, and Lightning a Constant in the Southwest

The annual North American monsoon pattern is ramping across the West, ushering in a number of both beneficial and hazardous impacts. This surge of monsoonal moisture is triggered by the shifting of the wind patterns across the Intermountain West. While the winds typically come in from the west, the northwest, or the north, the natural heating of the summer months causes the winds to flow to the south. The shift in the winds brings up more tropical moisture from the Pacific and the Gulf.

The additional moisture in the air raises humidity levels and supports the development of thunderstorms. The yearly influx of moisture serves as a lifeline to the Southwest, boosting water levels across the region's major reservoirs, streams, and rivers. This precipitation is particularly needed this year after a winter that saw snowfall levels fall well below normal levels.

The daily threat of thunderstorms is forecast to continue across the interior West through the end of the month.

Although the frequent rain showers are a welcome sight for the parched region, the monsoonal pattern also produces strong winds capable of blowing up dust storms known as haboobs. The dry lightning associated with the storms also increases the risk of new wildfires. The heavy rain coming along with some of the storms can trigger rapid runoff, laying the groundwork for flash flooding and debris flows. Hikers and campers need to be especially vigilant.

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