As Phoenix Temperatures Reach 115, Where Are The Monsoon Rains?
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If you’re wondering where this year’s monsoon rains are, you’re not alone.
While Phoenix-area temperatures this week are expected to approach 115, there don’t seem to be any storms in sight, at least not for the next few days.
With no sustainable rain this monsoon cycle, the benefits of last winter's rain and snow are dwindling.
"We're already seeing rainfall deficits around the state beginning to build," said meteorologist Mark O'Malley. "And some of the drought indicators are indicating that drought's starting to reemerge across Arizona."
If it persists, O'Malley suggested range land and stock ponds that sustain Arizona livestock will take the hardest hit. With only a month left in the monsoon cycle, he expects it will be difficult to make up the difference heading into the dryer fall period.
The Show spoke with Matt Pace more about this weather. Pace is an air quality meteorologist with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality.
