Essential Tips to Prepare Your Arizona Home for Monsoon Season
How to Prepare Your Arizona Home for Monsoon Season
Arizona’s monsoon season, which typically runs from June through September, brings a combination of intense weather conditions—thunderstorms, dust storms, lightning, heavy rain, flash flooding, and high winds. While these natural events are part of the desert’s summer rhythm, they also pose serious risks to unprepared homes. If you own property in Arizona, taking precautionary steps before monsoon season begins is key to minimizing damage and protecting your investment. Here's how to prepare your home thoroughly for the months ahead.
Inspect and Maintain Your Roof and Drainage Systems
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against storm damage. Schedule a professional roof inspection in late spring to check for loose or missing shingles, cracked flashing, and other signs of wear. Even minor damage can turn into significant leaks when monsoon rains hit. Along with the roof, gutters and downspouts should be cleaned and tested to ensure proper water flow. Clogged or damaged drainage systems can lead to foundation damage, basement flooding, and landscape erosion. If necessary, extend your downspouts away from the home’s base to keep water from pooling near the structure.
Trim Trees and Remove Dead Branches
Heavy winds and rain can easily snap branches or uproot unstable trees. Trim any overhanging limbs—especially those close to the roof, windows, or power lines—and remove dead or diseased trees. If a tree is growing into overhead power lines, contact your local utility provider to address the hazard safely. Keeping trees and shrubs healthy and well-maintained reduces the risk of them becoming storm debris or causing structural damage.
Secure Outdoor Items and Clean the Yard
A cluttered yard can quickly become dangerous during a monsoon storm. Lightweight objects like patio furniture, umbrellas, toys, and lawn decor can become airborne in high winds, damaging windows or nearby homes. Before the season begins, store loose items in a garage, shed, or indoors, or anchor them firmly to the ground. Clearing your yard of debris not only protects your property but also simplifies post-storm cleanup and reduces fire hazards if lightning strikes.
Check Windows, Doors, and Weather Stripping
Inspect your windows and doors for gaps, cracks, or old weather stripping. Resealing these areas helps keep moisture out and prevents potential mold or mildew from forming inside the home. If you have older windows or doors, consider installing storm shutters or upgrading to weather-resistant models. Also, make sure all screens are secure—this can help reduce interior damage if a window breaks during a storm.
Prepare for Power Outages
Power interruptions are common during monsoon season. Be prepared by having flashlights, battery-operated lanterns, and extra batteries on hand. Charge power banks for your mobile devices and consider investing in a backup generator if you live in an area prone to extended outages. Keep a stock of non-perishable food, drinking water, medications, and first-aid supplies, especially if you live in a remote location.
Review Your Homeowner’s Insurance
Before the season starts, review your homeowner’s insurance policy to ensure you’re adequately covered for water, wind, and storm damage. Some policies may exclude certain types of damage or require additional coverage for flooding. Speak with your insurance agent to confirm what’s included and consider updating your policy if needed.
