If you are experiencing homelessness, preparation and awareness can help keep you—and your pets—safe during monsoon season.

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Understanding the Dangers

Flash Flooding

One of the greatest dangers during Arizona’s monsoon season is flash flooding. Floodwaters can develop rapidly, even when it is not raining where you are. Storms many miles away can send water rushing through washes, drainage channels, and riverbeds with little warning.

Avoid:

• Dry washes
• Drainage ditches
• Underpasses
• Culverts
• Low-lying camping areas
• Flood-control channels

Move to higher ground immediately if storms begin developing or weather alerts are issued.

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Lightning

Arizona experiences hundreds of thousands of lightning strikes during monsoon season. Lightning can strike several miles away from a storm and often occurs before rain begins falling. 

If You Hear Thunder:

• Seek shelter immediately.
• Move inside a sturdy building whenever possible.
• Stay away from isolated trees.
• Avoid open fields and hilltops.
• Stay away from metal fences and poles.
• Avoid holding metal objects. 

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Dust Storms (Haboobs)

Dust storms can appear suddenly and reduce visibility to near zero. They can also aggravate asthma, COPD, allergies, and other respiratory conditions. 

Protect Yourself:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a mask, bandana, or cloth.
• Protect your eyes when possible.
• Move indoors or into enclosed shelter.
• Avoid breathing heavy amounts of dust.

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High Winds

Monsoon storms often produce powerful wind gusts capable of blowing over tents, damaging belongings, and creating dangerous flying debris. 

Before a Storm:

• Secure loose belongings.
• Stay away from dead trees and loose branches.
• Avoid unstable structures.
• Move away from construction materials and debris piles.

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Extreme Heat and Humidity

Even during monsoon season, temperatures frequently exceed 100°F in the Valley. Heat-related illness remains one of the leading weather-related hazards in Arizona, particularly for individuals experiencing homelessness. 

Watch for Signs of Heat Illness:

• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Excessive sweating
• Nausea
• Headaches
• Confusion
• Fainting

Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms worsen or become severe. 

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Storm Safety Tips for Individuals Experiencing Homelessness

1. Monitor the Weather Daily

Check weather forecasts using a cell phone, public library, outreach worker, shelter, or local news station whenever possible. Knowing a storm is coming can help you reach safety before conditions become dangerous. 

2. Know Where to Go Before a Storm Arrives

Identify safe locations ahead of time, such as:

• Emergency shelters
• Cooling centers
• Libraries
• Community centers
• Churches
• Transit centers

Planning ahead can save lives.

3. Protect Important Documents

Keep identification, Social Security cards, medications, benefit paperwork, and emergency contact information in waterproof bags or containers.

4. Carry a Small Emergency Kit

Consider carrying:

• Bottled water
• Flashlight
• Portable phone charger
• Rain poncho
• Extra socks
• Basic first-aid supplies
• Waterproof storage bags

5. Never Sleep in a Wash

Dry washes may appear safe but can quickly become deadly during monsoon storms. Floodwaters can arrive suddenly and rise rapidly. 

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Protecting Pets During Monsoon Season

Many people experiencing homelessness rely on pets for companionship, comfort, and emotional support. Pets face many of the same dangers from storms and heat as their owners.

Keep Pets Leashed

Thunder, lightning, and strong winds can frighten animals and cause them to run away unexpectedly.

Keep Water Available

Dogs and cats can suffer from dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

Provide:

• Fresh drinking water
• Shade whenever possible
• Frequent rest periods

Protect Pet Supplies

Store the following in waterproof bags:

• Pet food
• Vaccination records
• Medications
• Leashes and collars
• Waste bags

Avoid Floodwaters

Do not allow pets to drink standing water, puddles, or floodwater after a storm.

Seek Shelter Together

Whenever possible, identify pet-friendly shelters or temporary pet care resources before storms arrive.

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Final Thoughts