Weather Safety

Maricopa experiences a variety of hazardous weather conditions throughout the year, from extreme heat and monsoon storms to sudden dust storms and flash flooding. Knowing how to prepare and how to stay safe can prevent injuries, emergencies, and property damage.

Below are safety tips for the most common weather hazards in our region.

Extreme Heat Safety

Extreme heat is one of the most dangerous weather conditions in Arizona. High temperatures can lead to heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and power-related emergencies. Take the following precautions during periods of excessive heat:

Stay Cool

• Never leave children or pets in a parked vehicle.
• Stay indoors as much as possible and limit direct sun exposure.
• If your home lacks air conditioning, stay on the lowest floor and keep blinds closed.
• Spend the hottest part of the day in public places such as libraries, malls, community centers, or movie theaters. 
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors that absorb sunlight.
• Protect your face and head with a wide-brimmed hat.

Stay Hydrated

• Drink water regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Avoid caffeine and limit alcohol consumption.
• People with heart conditions, kidney issues, epilepsy, or fluid-restricted diets should consult a doctor before increasing fluid intake.
• Eat light, well-balanced meals; do not use salt tablets unless directed by a physician.

Stay Safe

• Postpone outdoor activities, sports, or strenuous work.
• If you must work outdoors, use the buddy system and take frequent breaks in the shade.
• Check on family, friends, neighbors, and older adults, especially those without air conditioning.
• Avoid sudden temperature changes, such as immediately entering very cold air after being in extreme heat.
• Check frequently on pets to ensure they have shade and fresh water.

Flash Flood Safety

Flash floods occur quickly and with little warning. Floodwater can move boulders, destroy structures, and create deadly walls of water 10–20 feet high. Even a small amount of water can be extremely dangerous. Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.

When Flooding Threatens

• Move immediately out of low-lying areas such as washes, dips, canyons, and flood-prone zones.
• Avoid flooded roads and fast-moving water. Do not attempt to cross a flowing stream if water is above your knees.

If You Are Driving

• Know how deep water is before crossing a dip—roadways may be washed out underneath.
• If your vehicle stalls in water, abandon it and move to higher ground immediately.
• Rising water can engulf a vehicle within seconds.
• Use extra caution at night when flood hazards are harder to see.

General Precautions

• Never camp, park, or stop your vehicle along streams or washes during storms or threatening conditions.
• Stay informed by monitoring local alerts through radio, television, or mobile notifications.
• Follow instructions from the National Weather Service and local emergency services.

Monsoon Storm Safety

Monsoon season (June–September) brings thunderstorms, strong winds, heavy rainfall, and sudden power outages.

During Monsoon Storms

• Stay indoors and away from windows when high winds or lightning occur.
• Secure loose outdoor items such as umbrellas, furniture, and trampolines.
• Charge phones and portable batteries ahead of incoming storms.
• Keep pets indoors.
• Unplug sensitive electronics to prevent electrical surge damage.

Dust Storm / Haboob Safety

Dust storms can reduce visibility to zero in seconds. If a dust storm approaches while you are driving:

Driving Safety

• "Pull Aside, Stay Alive."
• Pull completely off the roadway and turn off your vehicle.
• Turn off headlights and keep your foot off the brake so other drivers do not follow your lights.
• Stay in your vehicle with your seat belt fastened.

If You're Outside

• Move indoors immediately if possible.
• Cover your nose and mouth to avoid breathing dust.
• Avoid desert washes and open areas.

Lightning Safety

Lightning is extremely dangerous and can strike several miles from a storm.

If Your Hear Thunder

• Go indoors immediately — a building or fully enclosed vehicle is safest.
• Avoid open fields, high ground, tall trees, or water.
• Do not use corded phones, run water, or use appliances during lightning.
• Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before returning outdoors.

Cold Weather Safety (Occasional Overnight Freeze) 

Although rare, overnight freezes can still affect pipes, pets, and plants.

• Cover or wrap exposed outdoor pipes.
• Bring pets indoors during freezing temperatures.
• Protect sensitive plants with blankets or frost cloth.
• Use space heaters safely: keep them three feet away from anything that can burn and plug them directly into a wall outlet.

Stay Informed

Weather conditions can change quickly. Stay updated through:

• Local alert systems
• Phone weather apps
• TV and radio news
• National Weather Service alerts

Being prepared and staying aware helps keep you, your family, and your home safe year-round.