Phoenix Wettest October: 4th Wettest on Record

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Phoenix Weather: October Rainfall Nears Record Highs, sky Harbor Sees Historic Downpour

Phoenix is experiencing one of its wettest Octobers on record, with rainfall totals already exceeding historical averages. As of October 12th, the city has recorded just over three inches of rain, placing it as the fourth-wettest October in Phoenix’s history, according to 12News Meteorologist Chris Dunn.

Did you know?-Phoenix typically receives less than an inch of rain in October. This year’s rainfall is more than three times the average, contributing to meaningful moisture levels.

Historic Rainfall at Sky Harbor

Since midnight on October 12th, Sky Harbor International Airport recorded nearly 2 inches of rain, significantly surpassing the previous daily record of just under a third of an inch set in 1957. This dramatic increase in precipitation is linked to a tropical surge bringing sustained rainfall to the region.

Reader question:-Why is this rainfall unusual? A rare tropical surge pulled moisture from the Pacific ocean, colliding with a low-pressure system over the Southwest.

Comparing October Rainfall Totals

The National Weather Service data reveals how this year’s rainfall stacks up against previous wet Octobers:

• October 2018: 5.35 inches of rain
• October 1972: 4.4 inches of rain
• October 2000: 3.17 inches of rain
• October 2023 (to date): Just over 3 inches of rain

The current rainfall is rapidly approaching the levels seen in 2000, raising the possibility of climbing even higher in the rankings before the month concludes.

Did you know?-The 1972 October rainfall was influenced by Hurricane Nora, which brought remnants of tropical moisture into Arizona.

Rainfall Variations Across the Valley

Rainfall amounts have varied considerably across the Phoenix metropolitan area. Data collected by the Flood Control District of Maricopa County as of 4 p.m.on October 12th shows:

• Carriage Lane Park: 2.09 inches of rain
• Thunder Mountain: 1.5 inches of rain
• GateWay Community College: 1.34 inches of rain
• Chaparral Park: 1.02 inches of rain
• Perry Park: 0.91 inches of rain
• Gillespie Dam: 0.79 inches of rain
• Bartlett Lake: 0.67 inches of rain
• Desert Mountain School: 0.59 inches of rain
• Paradise Valley Country Club: 0.35 inches of rain
• City of Glendale: 0.28 inches of rain

These localized variations highlight the uneven distribution of rainfall across the valley, with some areas experiencing significantly higher amounts than others.

Reader question:-Why does rainfall vary so much across the Valley? Terrain and elevation changes create localized weather patterns, influencing precipitation amounts.

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