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U.S. Air Force weather forecasters assigned to the 56th Operations Support Squadron......read moreread more
Courtesy Photo | U.S. Air Force weather forecasters assigned to the 56th Operations Support Squadron pose for a group photo at Luke Air Force Base, Arizona, June 9, 2026. During Monsoon Awareness Week, Luke AFB weather forecasters partnered with the National Weather Service to educate Airmen and community members on severe weather hazards and preparedness throughout Arizona's monsoon season. (Courtesy photo) see less
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Luke Air Force Base recognizedMonsoon Awareness Week by educating Airmen and community members on the hazards associated with Arizona's annual monsoon season and the importance of staying prepared.
Monsoon season in Arizona brings an increased risk of thunderstorms, lightning,strong winds, flashfloodingand heavy rainfall. The annual awareness campaign, conducted in partnership with the National Weather Service, aimedto help residents understand weather risks and make informed decisions during severe weather events.
"Monsoon season is a weather phenomenon that occurs in the Southwest from June through September," said Senior Airman Anthony Avila, 56th Operations Support Squadron weather forecaster. "It's when we typically see most of our thunderstorms, heavier precipitation, stronger winds and more severe weather overall."
Flash flooding can quickly overwhelm roadways and drainage systems, creating dangerous driving conditions across theWestValley.
"If you seestanding wateron a roadway, don't drive through it," Avila said. "Find another route. Flash flooding can happen quickly during heavy rainfall, and roads can become dangerous before the water has a chance to drain."
According toAvila, monsoonstormscandeveloprapidly, creatingdangerous conditions foranyone caught unprepared.
"Nomatterthe situation, always check the weather forecast and stay informed," Avila said. "During monsoon season, you never really know what to expect, so it's important to know where you're going and have a plan if conditions change."
Forecastersalsoremindedresidents toprepareforrisingsummer temperaturesand unpredictable weather.
"A lot of people stationed here aren't from Arizona, so they're not used to temperatures reaching 110 degrees or higher," Avila said. "Staying hydrated and planning ahead is important, especially during the summer months."
By understanding seasonal weather hazards and taking simple precautions, Airmen and their families can reduce risk and stay safe throughout Arizona's monsoon season.
To prepare for the upcomingmonsoonseason,view oursafety guideson the[LukeAir Force Base website](https://www.luke.af.mil/Portals/58/Monsoon%20001.pdf)
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