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Monsoon thunderstorms over Grand Canyon

Stormy clouds over canyon from Grand Lodge North Rim Grand Canyon National Park Arizona

A meteorological event occurs during July and August as Arizona’s landscape heats up and the wind changes direction bringing monsoon thunderstorms over Grand Canyon.

Last light over Walhalla Plateau North Rim Grand Canyon National Park Arizona

In fact, the name “monsoon” is derived from the Arabic world “mausin” meaning season or wind-shift.

Last light on Bright Angel Point and South Rim from North Rim Grand Canyon National Park Arizona

During the winter, winds blow primarily from the west or northwest then summer winds shift from the south or southeast.

Sunset from Grand Lodge North Rim Grand Canyon National Park Arizona

This brings moisture northward from the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.

Sunset over Widforss Plateau North Rim Grand Canyon National Park Arizona

Three stages of thunderstorm develop: the updraft cumulus, mature stage and dissipation.

Sunset & storm clouds over canyon North Rim Grand Canyon National Park Arizona

Storm cells in Arizona are generally short-lived and average about 30-40 minutes.  Of course the cycle can repeat itself so always be prepared for monsoon thunderstorms over Grand Canyon.

Arizona, Grand Canyon National Park North Rim 17 Comments

Afternoon monsoon at Grand Canyon

01 Afternoon monsoon BAP trail NR GRCA NP AZ (1024x768)

You can almost set your watch by the afternoon rains. Ah, monsoon season at the canyon.

02 Afternoon monsoon BAP trail NR GRCA NP AZ (1024x768)

You run for cover for about 20 minutes.

 03 Afternoon monsoon BAP trail NR GRCA NP AZ (1024x768)

And then the sun returns leaving a freshness that is palpable.

Grand Canyon National Park, North Rim , , , 15 Comments

Sky Watch Friday – Grand Canyon National Park

View south from Fire Point
The sky was clear when I left my RV home on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park  and drove north into the adjacent Kaibab National Forest to explore a side road leading to Fire Point. Many awesome canyon views are located in the forest where you can also camp for free.

Forest Road
I continued to watch the sky and didn’t stay long. During summer monsoon season it’s a good idea not be caught unaware. Dry creeks flood in an instant carrying water—and anything else in the way—over the canyon’s rim creating waterfalls that you’d never expect. Hard packed gravel roads can become a mud wrestler’s dream in moments. And there are no phone bars.

It never did rain that day. The monsoon season can be like that too as the winds blow the clouds away. Sometimes, the air is so dry the falling rain never makes it to the ground, called virga.

Dancing Aspen grove
Yet during the winter snow can build up to 15 feet which often bends the trunks of young Aspen.

For more great looks at skies from around the world or to share your own go to Sky Watch Friday by clicking here.

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Fire Point, Grand Canyon National Park North Rim, Kaibab National Forest, National Parks and Monuments , , 33 Comments

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