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Enjoying Arizona's Truly Unique Climate
When someone says "Arizona," one may picture saguaro cactus in a desert landscape. Indeed that is what Arizona is most famous for, along with its unique climate featuring blazing hot summer days and mild winters. But what is not as well known is that Arizona's topography and variations in altitude actually produce a variety of weather conditions and highly localized climate conditions. Mountains and plateaus make up more than half the state, and the city of Flagstaff boasts some great skiing!
In the lower elevations, desert conditions prevail however. In the 1960's, senior citizens from the cold, snowy Midwest and northern states began to discover that the desert areas of Arizona boast some mighty mild winters and made the state a very popular place to visit during those months. From late fall to early spring, temperatures may range from a low of 40 degrees to a very pleasant high of 75, with November through February being the coldest months. Frosts do occur from time to time, but they are by no means the norm. Temperatures begin to rise again toward the end of February, with warm days making a rapid comeback.
By May temperatures typically soar and the extreme heat last through July. Highs of 90 to 120 degrees are common and nighttime lows are also relatively high in urban areas due to the amount of heat absorbed into and then reflected back from city asphalt. In undeveloped areas, however, the temperature swings between day and night are much more pronounced. Desert plants such as the famous saguaro cactus, prickly pear, and desert lupine thrive in this climate, as do the great horned owl, gila monster, and rattlesnake.
Arizona does get a reprieve from the summer heat! In July or August, the dewpoint begins to rise and the air develops large amounts of water vapor. The desert areas are cooled by thunderstorms, wind, and brief heavy downpours. This change in the weather is the result of monsoon winds that offer relief to residents, plant life, and animals alike. The desert has one more rainy season, during the winter, when cold fronts from the Pacific move in bringing moisture.
Although the desert is Arizona's most famous climate, it must be remembered that the state's northern plateau with its accompanying higher altitudes boasts a much cooler weather pattern. Cold air systems from the northern parts of the United States still reach this part of Arizona, resulting in temperatures occasionally dipping below 0 degrees! Snow is common in this climate in the winter, and summers are much cooler than in the lower elevations.
Whether you like heat or snow, Arizona offers both. The uniqueness of this state attracts millions of tourists yearly, and it is a year-round home to millions more who enjoy its variations in temperature and dry desert climate.
About the Author If you are planning on exploring this great state and are looking for an Arizona hotel offering first-class amenities for your vacation, visit Scottsdale Luxury Suites (http://www.luxurysuites.com). Art Gib is a freelance writer. |
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