The Sonoran Desert has two rainy seasons. The first is the summer monsoon season when violent storms move in from the south. The second rainy season can begin in December, characterized by more gentle rains that come off the Mogollen Rim, a vast plateau that slashes across the state diagonally. With the cooler temperatures, December is a perfect time to track wonders.
In December, watch for:
- Night Sky - Keep watching the sky for heavenly wonder events. Mark scheduled events on your calendar.
- Rain, clouds and thirsty plants - Rain in the desert kicks up the signature scent of the creosote plant and every Arizona resident associates it with a rainy day. Other desert plants are designed to lap up the water while the getting is good and can show signs of growth in a matter of 24-48 hours.
- Desert hikes - It's a good time to get out and explore Arizona's many trails. When hiking, always remember that washes can quickly go from dry, sandy beds to raging torrents of water. Follow the rules of nature trekking and be aware of your surroundings.
- Bird Watching - Keep your eyes peeled for unusual birds. During the winter months, Arizona is a hot spot for bird migrations. Some come to stay, others are just passing through.
Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum Natural Events Calendar
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