Grand Canyon South Rim's Monsoon Season

By:


Going to the Grand Canyon's South Rim this Summer? Then you need to be aware of a weather cycle called the monsoon, which lasts from July to September and is characterized by lightening, flash flooding, and thunderstorms.

The fundamental meaning of monsoon is "seasonal winds." Here's how those winds manifest themselves at Grand Canyon National Park:

- Cool air from the Gulf of Mexico, Pacific Ocean, and the Gulf of California, flow north This cool air meets hot air in Arizona
- The monsoon is official once the dew point hits 55 Fahrenheit or higher for three consecutive days
- The atmosphere is unstable and produces rain, lightening, and thunderstorms
- The chance of thunderstorms increases substantially if there's a nearby mountain range.

Monsoon-related weather typically happens from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. To spot it, look for darkening skies, flashes of light, and increasing wind. In addition, listen for thunder. If you identify any of these signs, seek shelter in a building or in a car. In the wilderness, see shelter under short trees. Here are some more tips:

- Roll up car windows and don't use convertibles for shelter
- Don't use your cell
- Don't take a shower or a bath
- Pull down window blinds or shades. This stops glass from broken windows from coming inside.

Thunderstorms can produce a lot of rain in a short time. The result: Flash floods. If you are hiking in the Canyon, seek high ground. If driving, do not cross washes with water in them - the flow can be deceptively swift and deep. If you car stalls in rapidly rising waters, abandon the vehicle and climb to higher ground.

Lightening is normal and on occasion has been recorded as striking people. If you hear thunder, seek shelter. However, if a person is hit, here are some first-aid facts:

- People hit by lightning can be handled safely. There's no remaining electrical charge.
- Quickly get medical assistance.
- The injured person has been shocked and may be burned. Be careful how - handle him or her.
- If need be, perform CPR until help comes.

If you take precautions, the chances of getting hurt during the monsoon in the state of Arizona are slim to none . Annually, two to three people perish in flash floods, and up to two people by lightning strike.

The monsoon is the most dramatic time to visit the Grand Canyon's south Rim. Huge thunderheads, cooler temperatures, and long lightning streaks team to make an incredibly intense backdrop to this natural wonder. Thunderstorms are brief but powerful, and can produce flash floods and lots of lightning. Be aware of your surroundings. If you sense monsoon weather afoot, seek shelter. The storm will soon pass, with the Canyon looking more beautiful than ever.

About the Author:
Visiting the Grand Canyon? Check out my tour review sites. I rate bus tour operators at GdrandCanyonBusDeals.com and helicopter ones at GrandCanyonHelicopterTourReviews.com



Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com


Tags: , ,

|

Loading...
Related....
Videos...

Recent Travel-and-Leisure Articles

Comments

Still can't find what you are looking for? Search for it!

Loading

Site Navigation:

Copyright 2005-2011 ArticleSnatch, LLC - All Rights Reserved.
Privacy Policy | Terms of Service.