In a recent turn of weather events, northern Arizona received a significant amount of rainfall, offering a short-term respite from the ever-present threat of wildfires. However, the rainfall has not been sufficient to alleviate the persistent drought conditions that have gripped the state for much of the year.
June is typically the driest and hottest month in northern Arizona, marking the peak of the wildfire season.
The recent storms have delivered between a quarter and three-quarters of an inch of rain to most areas, with some regions experiencing nearly three inches. Heavy rainfall on Tuesday affected the Grand Canyon and parts of the Havasupai reservation, causing flash floods that stranded several hikers as they rushed through Havasu Creek.
The National Weather Service anticipates that June will experience above-average rainfall, although the risk of wildfires may still rise in southern and central Arizona by mid-month. In northern Arizona, fire conditions are expected to remain within normal ranges, with a potential decrease in fire danger across the state by July and August.
Forecasts suggest that the next few weeks will bring drier conditions and temperatures in the triple digits in some lower desert regions.
Despite the recent precipitation, Arizona continues to grapple with drought conditions, with the southern region classified as having “extreme” drought and the southeast corner experiencing “exceptional” drought, the most severe level recorded by the Weather Service.
Looking ahead, forecasters predict an above-average monsoon season with increased rainfall and higher temperatures.
This weekend, the strengthening high pressure over the region is expected to bring progressively hotter afternoons.
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