As I write this column, we are at the end of a week of refreshing monsoon storms. The rain has awakened dormant plants and hidden wildlife that have been avoiding the brutal summer sun. We are optimistic that the hardships of summer are receding, and the days are shortening. Monsoons bring dramatic shows of building storm clouds, ground strikes and sheet lightning and double rainbows. But best of all, the spells of cooler air allow us to, however briefly, open our doors and windows and let fresh air into our homes.

So far 2026 monsoons have dropped between 1-1.5” of rain, far surpassing the 2023 and 2024 monsoon seasons, with their disappointing minimal rainfalls. The total rainfall in the 2025 monsoon was measured at 2.76 “ at Sky harbor. The full energy of a powerful gully washer might be just around the corner. With luck it will bring this year’s rainfall to match or exceed last year’s. We are grateful for the effects of the super El Nino and hope it lives up to its promise.

While the desert enjoys the moisture, it is time to refamiliarize ourselves with how to cope safely with these potent storms.

Monsoon storms bring the risk of flash floods. A storm miles away can quickly bring water into our washes without much warning. Be safe and do not cross flooded road dips or washes. The Arizona Emergency Information Network (AZEIN) reminds us that it is difficult to maintain your balance walking in 6” of fast-moving water. 12-18” of fast-moving water can cause most vehicles to float away. Low water crossings and flooded areas should be avoided. Water over pavement may conceal that the roadway has washed away or that heavy debris lurks under the water. Driving around barricades will seldom end well.

The unsettled air patterns of the monsoon season also can lead to huge dust storms called haboobs. For the uninitiated, haboobs may invoke images of Armageddon – intense wind, flying dust walls, dark orange skies, and zero visibility. AZEIN suggests, if driving in a haboob, pull off the road as far to the right as possible, turn off your lights, set the parking brake, and take your foot off the brake pedal so drivers behind you do not follow you. Visibility can shrink to just a few feet once you enter the wall of dust.

While monsoon storms spark a bit of an adrenaline rush in most of us, just think of the stress our furry friends might be feeling. Loud wind, pounding rain, flashing lightning, and booming thunder can frighten and confuse the most stoic pets. The Arizona Humane Society suggests keeping pets indoors, providing a safe haven with food, toys, and water, and turning the TV or radio on to distract pets.

As welcome as the monsoon season may be and as much as we relish the much needed rain, a bit of caution and common sense will go a long way to keep us safe. And for those of you who have been following Firewise practices and have that Go Bag packed, you will be able to sleep through this monsoon season a bit easier.

Sincerely,

Mayor John Crane

Renew Your Carefree Business License Today!

The business license renewal grace period has ended. Any business currently operating in Carefree that has not completed the licensing process should take action as soon as possible to remain in compliance with Town requirements.

If your business is already registered in the Town’s online portal, log in to pay the required renewal fees. If your business is not yet in the portal, you will need to create an account and submit a business license application.

Please note that requirements vary by business type, you can learn more on our website at carefree.org/page/business-licenses.

Brick-and-mortar businesses must also provide a copy of their Certificate of Occupancy. Businesses are responsible for maintaining and submitting this document, as the Town does not have a copy on file. If your business has never received a Certificate of Occupancy, please schedule a safety inspection and obtain one as soon as possible.

Thank you for helping keep your business license and information current!

DFLT Launches August Match Challenge

Desert Foothills Land Trust (DFLT) announced today the launch of its August Match Challenge, offering donors the opportunity to double their conservation impact through a generous matching gift program. Two anonymous donors have pledged to match all contributions received during the month of August, up to $25,000.

The campaign coincides with a significant milestone: DFLT's 35th anniversary. Since its founding in 1991, the organization has stewarded critical Sonoran Desert habitat, preserved cultural and historic resources, and connected thousands of residents and visitors to the natural heritage of the Desert Foothills. This year's matching funds make every donation a particularly impactful way to mark that milestone.

“This desert belongs to all of us, and for 35 years, the generosity of this community has made it possible to protect it," said Raena Kamakahi, President and CEO. "Every acre conserved is a reflection of people who believe this place is worth saving. This August, with every gift matched dollar for dollar, that commitment goes twice as far.”

DFLT's conservation work focuses on habitat preservation for desert wildlife and protecting significant cultural resources. The organization's education programs serve thousands of participants annually through guided hikes, a free speaker series, and other community events that build lasting connections to the land.

Community members can participate in the August Match Challenge by making donations online at dflt.org/give-today or by mailing checks to Desert Foothills Land Trust, P.O. Box 4861, Cave Creek, AZ 85327. All contributions received through August 31 will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $25,000.

For more information about Desert Foothills Land Trust and its conservation initiatives, visit dflt.org.

In Arizona, even a short rainstorm can send water rushing across rooftops, driveways, streets, and parking lots. As it travels, stormwater can collect sediment, oil, fertilizers, pet waste, litter, and other pollutants before flowing into washes, drainage systems, and nearby waterways. Unlike household wastewater, stormwater generally does not pass through a treatment facility before reaching surface waters.

Rain gardens help manage this runoff by capturing water in shallow, landscaped areas filled with drought-tolerant plants, rocks, mulch, and specially prepared soil. The water is temporarily held in place, allowing it to slowly soak into the ground while plants and soil naturally filter pollutants. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, a rain garden can absorb approximately 30% more rainwater than a conventional lawn.

Even a small amount of rainfall can produce a surprising amount of runoff. A one-inch rainstorm can generate approximately 600 gallons of water from a 1,000-square-foot roof—water that can be directed into a rain garden instead of flowing onto streets or neighboring properties.

Unlike traditional gardens, rain gardens are designed to handle both wet and dry conditions, making them well suited for Arizona’s desert climate. Native and desert-adapted plants can provide shade, beautify a property, and create valuable habitat for birds, butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.

Rain gardens can be installed near downspouts, driveways, parking areas, or other places where runoff naturally collects. By slowing water down and keeping it close to where it falls, these small landscape features can reduce erosion, support plants through passive rainwater harvesting, and decrease the amount of pollution entering Arizona’s washes and waterways.