ARIZONA, USA — One of the biggest lightning myths is if there are no clouds or rain overhead, then you cannot get struck by lightning. Lightning can strike more than 15 miles out from the parent thunderstorm. That's why you often hear the phrase, "when thunder roars, go indoors."
Let's go over what it takes to produce a lot of lightning - A strong updraft, or a tall thunderstorm, a lot of moisture to fuel storm development and growth, and wind shear (winds changing speed and direction with height to help ventilate the storm).
As we're heading into early summer and the heart of wildfire season, you'll likely notice a lot of dry lightning. Dry lightning is simply lightning that occurs with little or no rain. Dry lightning often helps ignite and fuel wildfires. The month of June is usually bone dry and piping hot. Lightning strikes combined with hot, dry conditions exacerbate wildfires.
When it comes to lightning in the valley, July 9 is when Phoenix typically sees the 100th lightning strike of the monsoon. However, the valley has witnessed the 100th lightning strike as early as June 20 and as late as Aug. 8.
The monsoon officially starts on June 15. However, we will likely experience a late onset of Monsoon 2024.
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ARIZONA WEATHER
Drought, wildfires, heat and monsoon storms: Arizona has seen its fair share of severe weather. Learn everything you need to know about the Grand Canyon State's ever-changing forecasts here.