Get ready for monsoon season before it starts. Roughly June through September, Arizona gets sudden storms with high wind, blowing dust, heavy downpours and power outages. This checklist covers what to do around the roof, gutters, trees, patio, power and car so a storm does not catch you off guard. Do the work in spring, when it is still comfortable to be outside early.
Time: a weekend. Skill: easy, with some jobs for pros.
What should you check on your roof?
Do not climb on your roof. Roofs are slippery, hot and dangerous, and a fall can be serious. Look from the ground instead, or with binoculars. You are looking for:
- Cracked, slipped or missing tiles, or lifted shingles
- Loose or rusty flashing around vents and chimneys
- Sagging areas or exposed underlayment
- Brown stains on interior ceilings
If you see damage or stains, have a roofer inspect it before the storms. A small repair now is easier than a leak later. Ask any roofer to confirm their license at roc.az.gov.
Do you need to clean gutters and drains?
Many Valley homes have few or no gutters, but if you have them, clear the leaves and dust so water can run off. Do this only if you are steady on a ladder, and ask someone to hold it. Skip it if you are not. Also check that downspouts and drain lines carry water away from the foundation, and clear any wash or low spot near the house of trash and debris.
What about trees and yard items?
- Trim dead or weak branches and heavy palm fronds. Large limbs, anything near power lines, and anything you cannot reach safely belong to a pro.
- Look for trees with cracks or a lean. Shallow-rooted trees can topple in strong winds.
- Bring in or tie down patio furniture, umbrellas, trampolines, trash cans and light yard items.
- Pick up loose rock, pots and decorations that could become flying objects.
How do you prepare for a power outage?
Outages can last hours or longer in summer heat.
- Charge phones and power banks when storms are in the forecast.
- Keep flashlights and fresh batteries where you can find them.
- Keep extra drinking water, and a plan for cooling off: a friend's home, or a public cooled space.
- Unplug sensitive electronics, or use surge protectors.
- Use generators only outdoors, far from windows and doors. Never run one in a garage, because carbon monoxide can kill you.
- Check on older neighbors and anyone who needs medical equipment.
What should you do about dust storms?
Close windows and doors when a dust wall approaches, and bring pets inside. If you are driving, follow the state's "Pull Aside, Stay Alive" advice: pull off the road as far as you can, turn off your lights, take your foot off the brake and stay buckled until it passes.
Never drive into a flooded wash or road. A foot or two of moving water can carry a vehicle away.
When to call a pro
Call a roofer for any damage, leak or age concerns you find, and for tarping if a storm does damage. Here are local roofing companies in the directory, with phone numbers:
If you need a different type of help after a storm, ask the helper or browse Phoenix businesses.
Questions people ask
When is monsoon season in Arizona?
Monsoon season runs roughly from June through September, though storms vary by year and place. The storm risk is highest in the afternoon and evening.
How do I know if my roof needs to be checked before monsoon?
Look for missing or cracked tiles, stained ceilings and old age. If you are unsure, have a roofer inspect it. Ask your insurance agent how your policy treats storm damage.
What should I do if the power goes out during a monsoon storm?
Stay put and stay cool. Use flashlights, not candles. Keep the refrigerator closed. Report downed power lines to your utility and 911, and stay far away from them.
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