Once summer arrives, days become filled with hiking, biking, climbing mountains, and enjoying the outdoors. With summer comes rainstorms, which can dampen outdoor adventures and make them potentially hazardous. Typically referred to as the monsoon season, this time of summer requires you to be prepared for changing weather conditions.
By taking precautions such as checking the weather beforehand and being aware of storm hazards, you can stay safe during the monsoon season. And if the rain puts a damper on your outdoor activities, there is still plenty of indoor fun to be had in Durango.
What is the Monsoon Season?
The monsoon season in southwest Colorado typically occurs from early July to August, characterized by afternoon storms that can be hazardous. It happens when summer winds shift and start pulling moisture from the Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific. This extra moisture fuels afternoon thunderstorms, which can be light and brief, or loud and drenching.
Mornings are often sunny, but come late afternoon, you can expect dramatic clouds, lightning, wind, and sudden downpours. The rain is great for cooling things off and greening up southwest Colorado, but it also means a higher risk of flash floods. If you are hiking or biking, start early and keep an eye on the sky.
Monsoon Season Safety
Know and Respect the Weather Forecast
Weather can shift fast in the mountains and high desert of Durango, especially during monsoon season. It is essential to check and respect the forecast before you go out. Thunderstorms can roll in quickly, bringing dangerous weather with them, even if the day starts off clear.
Before you head out, take a moment to look at the latest weather updates and plan to start your outdoor adventures early. Stay flexible and be willing to adjust plans if storms are approaching. There is still plenty to do in Durango, such as visiting the local Animas Museum or exploring the shops on Main Avenue. By respecting the forecast, you are protecting the environment and yourself.
Be Aware of Lightning
Lightning is no joke, especially during monsoon season. Storms can pop up out of nowhere, and lightning can strike miles from where it’s raining. If you hear thunder, even distantly, it’s time to get serious.
First, get off high ground, avoid trees, and then head for shelter. If you are above the treeline, get down fast. Having no cover, like trees, exposes you to lightning. The best way to avoid danger like lightning is to plan your day around the weather and start early. Trust your gut, stay aware, and don’t take chances.
Be Aware of Flash Flooding
A significant danger during the monsoon season is flash floods, which can occur rapidly without much warning. A storm miles away can send a sudden surge of water through the dry creek beds or canyon you are hiking in. It might be sunny and dry where you are, but that doesn’t always mean you’re in the clear. It's essential to check the weather before you go out, especially if you’re exploring narrow canyons or low-lying areas.
If water starts to rise, turns muddy, or you hear a distant booming roar, get to high ground immediately. Flash floods are powerful and unpredictable; it’s always best to play it safe.
Be Aware of Slippery Roads and Trails
Rain can quickly turn roads and trails into slippery, muddy messes. Even a short downpour can make a dirt trail hard to walk on and unstable. Rocks in scree fields become slick, and clay-heavy soil can stick to boots or tires, making hiking or biking difficult and dangerous.
Those unpaved mountain roads can get washed out or rutted, making driving to and from the trailhead hazardous. If you find yourself navigating a slippery road or trail, slow down, watch your footing, and know your limits. If a trail or road becomes too dangerous, turn back. It is not worth the risk.
Stay Out of and Away from Rivers and Lakes
During monsoon season in Durango, rivers and lakes can change fast, even if it’s not raining where you are. An upstream storm can swell a calm river and create a fast, dangerous current in minutes. Those gorgeous alpine lakes can experience sudden waves, rising water, and lightning.
Avoid swimming, boating, or even hanging out too close to the edge during or after a storm. Riverbanks themselves can be slippery and unstable. When in doubt, keep your distance from rivers and lakes during storms.
Avoid High Grounds
When monsoon storms roll in, staying away from high ground can keep you safe. Lightning tends to strike the tallest spots, such as ridges, peaks, and open hilltops. Being up in the high country can put you in the danger zone during a thunderstorm. If you spot dark clouds or hear thunder, don’t hesitate - get down quickly.
Even if the storm seems far away, it’s better to be safe than put yourself in danger. Look for lower spots with shelter away from tall trees and metal. By planning to start your hike early and finish before the afternoon, you are less likely to be stuck on high ground if the weather turns sour.
Conclusion
Monsoon season can be a fun time full of hiking, biking, and exploring the beauty all around Durango. By staying alert and aware of storms and the dangers they bring, you can stay safe. Make sure to check the weather before going out and respect the forecast if an anticipated storm is expected. Staying safe on the trail means being aware of lightning, flash floods, and water bodies during and after a storm. Yours and others’ safety is the number one priority, so if you see a storm approaching, get off high ground and head back down. It’s better to be safe and sound than sorry. Keep in mind these safety tips during your next outdoor adventure in Durango.
