Tucson monsoons are violent and unpredictable. In minutes, a dry street like Stone Avenue can become a raging river. Hydroplaning and flash floods cause more accidents in July and August than any other time of year. Here is your survival guide for Arizona's stormy season.
1. The "Stupid Motorist Law" is Real
Arizona has a specific law for a reason. If you bypass barricades and get stuck in a flooded wash, you will be charged for the cost of your rescue. It's not worth it. Turn around, don't drown. Even 6 inches of moving water can knock a person down; 12 inches can float a car. If you encounter a flooded dip, find an alternate route.
2. Hydroplaning: Don't Touch the Brakes
When your tires lose contact with the road and ride on a layer of water, you have zero traction. This feels like sliding on ice.
- Do NOT brake: This will cause an immediate spin.
- Do NOT jerk the wheel: Keep the wheel straight or steer gently into the skid.
- Ease off the gas: Let the car slow down naturally until the tires regain contact with the asphalt.
3. Dust Storms (Haboobs)
Often preceding the rain is a wall of dust. Visibility can drop to zero instantly.
- Pull completely off the pavement. Do not stop in the emergency lane or travel lane.
- Turn OFF your lights. If you leave them on, cars behind you may follow your taillights thinking you are in a lane and rear-end you.
- Keep your foot off the brake pedal.
- Wait for the storm to pass.
ENGINE WARNING: If you drive through deep water and your engine stalls, DO NOT try to restart it. You may have sucked water into the intake (hydrolock), which destroys the engine instantly. Call for a tow or roadside help immediately.
Stuck in the Mud or Water?
We can winch you out safely. Don't risk your engine.
ROADSIDE HELP - $85 FLAT