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Tucson Climate and Topography

 

 

Located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Tucson enjoys approximately 320 days of sunshine a year. Summer months can be extremely warm, with high temperatures reaching  100 degrees, but low humidity and altitude make these months very tolerable. Fall , Winter and Spring months enjoy mild temperatures ranging from 65 to 85 degrees, with temperatures cooling after the sun sets in the evening.

   

Although the majority of days are sunny, Tucson does experience two rainy seasons each year. Late afternoon monsoon storms generally begin to roll into the area mid July, bringing heavy rains, spectacular lightening displays and cooler evening temperatures. These storms replenish the dry  Arizona desert thru August, until drier air makes its way back into the state. 

Tucson's second rainy season begins in December and continues into January. Cool winter rains  promote much of the wildflower blooms that can be seen in fields and along roadways during the Spring months. These rains may also result in snow capped mountains surrounding the city, enticing skiers to trek up to Mt. Lemmon for a day on the slopes. 

The Tucson valley, located at 2,389 feet above sea level and covering approximately 500 square miles, is nestled amongst 5 different mountains ranges. Each provides majestic views as well as endless recreational opportunities for every type of excursionist.

The Santa Catalina Mountains, in North Tucson,  are used as a point of orientation for locals and visitors alike because they are the most prominent of the ranges. Mt. Lemmon,  situated atop the Catalina's at just over 9000 feet above sea level,  is a prime attraction for those seeking a place to camp, ski or just enjoy cooler temperatures.  The Rincon Mountains are located on Tucson's East side, and glow each morning as the sun rises over its peaks.  For a spectacular sunset that's unmatched, look to the Tucson Mountains which are located on the city's West side. Finally you'll find the Tortolita Mountains bordering Northwest Tucson and the Santa Rita Mountains to the South as you approach Mexico.

   

Though Arizona's climate is hot and dry, the desert is teaming with vegetation and wildlife.  The Sonoran Desert has over 2,500 species of desert plants, sixty-eight of which are cactus that produce flowers in red, orange, yellow and pink. First time visitors are often amazed to find native plants exploding with colorful blooms in the middle of summer, and many a Tucsonan has been shocked to find a coyote or bobcat lounging in the shade on their patio. The Arizona-Sonoran Desert Museum is the perfect place to see and learn about these plants and wildlife that are native to our desert area.