Starting in mid-June, our typically dry westerly winds shift, bringing moisture from the Gulf of Mexico, Gulf of California, and remnants of Pacific tropical storms into Arizona. As a result, monsoon Season officially begins on June 15 and runs until September 30 each year.
Our monsoons account for roughly half the annual precipitation in central Arizona. The short-lived, intense thunderstorms typical of a monsoon storm often result in flash flooding in steep terrain and urban flooding through low-lying roads and normally dry washes.
Fountain Hills is nestled against the McDowell Mountains, and all rain will flow east towards the Salt River. The elevation drop from Eagle Mountain Boulevard to Fountain Park is nearly 1,500 feet, resulting in fast-moving water cascading down washes and streets.
During the monsoon season, it is crucial to stay aware of dire weather forecasts. If a significant rain event is expected, are you prepared?
When a severe storm is imminent, the Town of Fountain Hills will have sandbags available to help residents protect their property from flooding. Each resident is allowed seven sandbags at a time. The Town will provide the bags, sand, shovel, and sometimes the labor to fill them.
You can get your sandbags at Fire Station Number 1, located at 16426 E. Palisades Boulevard. Sand is available at the station from 8 a.m. till 5 p.m. During a flood emergency, these hours will adjust to serve the community. For more information, call 480-837-9820.