September is still monsoon season, meaning thunderstorms, heavy rain, strong winds, lightning, hail, flash flooding and dust storms are possible and remain a threat.

Protect Your Property

• Keep your gutters clear of leaves and debris. Not only do gutters help direct the flow of water away from your house, but by ncorporating proper rainwater harvesting techniques you can save money, decrease water use and reduce water pollutants.
• Install desert-friendly xeriscape landscape and turn off irrigation during monsoon rains. Gilbert, Chandler and Mesa offer water conservation rebates that can help offset initial costs and save you money in the long run.
• Use sandbags to prepare your home for severe floods. Your community may offer free sandbags and fill locations. (Gilbert, Mesa, Maricopa County)
• Prevent mosquito breeding by regularly removing and drying any standing water in your yard or around your home or business. Visit Maricopa County Vector Control for more information on mosquito prevention and mitigation.

Driving In Heavy Rain

• Do not drive into a flooded roadway or wash. It only takes about 1 to 2 feet of water to float most vehicles, including SUVs, and water depth is very easy to misjudge. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
• Never drive around barricades or “Road Closed” signs. You risk your life and face being cited under the state’s Stupid Motorist law.
• Pull Aside Stay Alive. When faced with low- or zero-visibility conditions, pull your vehicle off the road as far to the right as possible. Turn off your lights, set the parking brake, and take your foot off the brake pedal.
• If you feel you are hydroplaning, sliding or drifting, ease your foot off the gas pedal until you regain traction. Gently turn your steering wheel in the direction of your slide. Do not brake suddenly.
• Avoid areas where water is pooling in travel lanes. If possible, use center lanes.

Stay Safe Outdoors

• Never allow children to play near washes, storm drains or retention ponds after any rainfall, no matter how light. These locations flood easily, and children can rapidly be swept away.
• Be aware of distant thunderstorms. Flash flooding can occur many miles away from thunderstorms as runoff flows into valleys and desert washes.
• Do not camp overnight or park your vehicle along streams and washes during monsoon even if the threat of heavy rains is miles away.
• Hike and mountain bike early in the day to avoid the dangers of flash flooding, lightning and extreme heat. Be aware of your escape routes and be prepared to move to higher ground quickly.

Stay Informed During a Storm

• Follow the Maricopa County Flood Control District on X (formerly Twitter) for real-time information: @maricopaflood
• Visit maricopa.gov/monsoon for comprehensive storm preparedness resources.