How to Drive in a Tucson Monsoon

Located in the middle of the desert, Tucson is dry and sunny--except when monsoon season hits. July and August bring heavy rains, winds and thunderstorms that spring forth lush life, high humidity and lots of insects, but can also make driving a treacherous chore. You can drive in a Tucson monsoon by following a few simple tips and adhering to some common sense.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Slow down. Once the rain starts hurling itself at your windshield, watch your speed. Roads are slickest right when a rain begins, when water mixes with the oil and grime already coating the roadways. Going slow will also give you a greater break time in case you have to make any sudden stops, and insure the undersides of your auto have less splashing from puddles.

2. Brake softly. Slamming on the brakes is the best way to hydroplane--a phenomenon where your car is no longer touching the roadway but sits on top of a sheet of water.

3. Avoid flooded areas. Once monsoon season hits in July and August, Tucson streets will be pocked with yellow signs that warn, “Caution: Flood Area” or “Do Not Enter When Flooded.” Heed these signs. Even if the water looks shallow and you’re driving a massive truck, you don’t know how deep it really goes, the strength of the current or what other types of debris may be streaming just under the water line. Tucson even has a Stupid Motorist Law that makes people who ignore the signs and drive into flooded areas responsible for the cost of any rescue efforts on their behalf.

4. Pull over if it gets too treacherous. If the rain comes down in blinding sheets, as it often does, by all means get off the roadway. It is unwise, unsafe and just plain dumb to try to drive in a sheet of rain so thick you cannot see out of your windshield. Try to make it to the nearest establishment so you can at least hang out in a parking lot. If you cannot, pull over as on the side of the road as far away from traffic as you can and wait out the storm.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you have good windshield wipers and wiper fluid, and keep a rag or old towel in your car to wipe off water in an emergency.
• Keeping your car properly maintained is imperative in the desert. You don’t want to get broken down in the middle of a monsoon.
• Brakes should be checked regularly.

[Rynski]

on 1/15/2009 thanks, tricia!
...and drive safely!
ryn.

[triciagoss]

on 1/14/2009 Awesome tips!