Short answer: Monsoon storms flood the cracks and ground debris where scorpions hide, so they move to higher, drier spots, including your house. Warm, humid nights also bring out the insects they hunt.
Arizona's monsoon season officially runs June 15 through September 30, and it overlaps with the peak of scorpion activity. Homeowners across the Phoenix and Tucson areas report more scorpions indoors during and right after storms.
What changes during a storm
- Rain soaks rock piles, debris and gaps in the ground where scorpions hide
- They climb walls and move toward dry shelter
- Humid nights bring out crickets and other insects scorpions eat
- Gaps under doors and at the base of walls become the easiest way into dry space
How to get ahead of it
- Seal doors, the garage and weep screeds before June
- Move rock piles, wood and stored items away from the house
- Fix drips and standing water that draw insects
- Check the house with a blacklight after storms
The best time to seal is winter or spring, before the season starts, when companies have more openings.
Common questions
When is monsoon season in Arizona?
Officially June 15 to September 30.
Do scorpions drown?
They handle water better than most people expect, but floods still push them out of their hiding spots.