Tempe features a hot desert climate with extreme summer heat and mild winters. Average annual highs reach 87°F (31°C), lows around 60°F (16°C). Precipitation totals just 8 inches (20 cm) yearly, mostly during July-September monsoon season. Summers often exceed 100°F (38°C), while winters stay comfortable at 65-75°F (18-24°C) daytime. These conditions influence campus life at Academic Jobs in Tempe, where heat affects outdoor activities and energy use spikes for cooling. Explore Academic Jobs in Arizona for opportunities suited to this climate.
Spring (Mar-May) brings highs of 80-95°F (27-35°C) with low humidity. Summer (Jun-Aug) peaks at 105°F (41°C) averages, requiring hydration protocols. Fall (Sep-Nov) cools to 85°F (29°C), and winter offers sunny days at 68°F (20°C). Monsoons deliver brief heavy rains, 1-2 inches monthly. Arizona State University Foundation advises sunscreen, water stations, and class adjustments during heat waves. Extra costs include AC utilities ($150-300/month summer) and light clothing. Safety gear like hats and UV gear is essential; snow is rare, no winter boots needed.
105°F (41°C) highs, minimal rain. High UV index.
68°F (20°C) highs, dry. Occasional freezes below 32°F (0°C).
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At 1,150 ft (350 m) elevation in the Sonoran Desert, Tempe has sandy soils and basin geology prone to flash flooding. Air quality averages AQI 40 (good), but dust storms and wildfires elevate it to 100+ occasionally. Low pollution density supports outdoor campus life, though ozone and particulates affect sensitive groups. Arizona State University Foundation provides air monitors and health resources. Compare via Academic Jobs in United States.
Tempe faces heat waves (frequent), flash floods (monsoon-related, 5-10/year), haboobs (dust storms), and distant wildfires. Droughts persist long-term; earthquakes rare, no volcanoes active nearby. University protocols include heat alerts, flood evacuations via app, and emergency kits in dorms.
| Hazard | Frequency | Safety Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Waves | Annual | Cooling centers, hydration |
| Flash Floods | Seasonal | Evacuation routes |
| Dust Storms | 10+/year | Stay indoors |
Details at higher-ed-career-advice.
Ratings reflect data for Arizona State University Foundation community.
These boost appeal for faculty; see professor-salaries.
High ratings support vibrant campus life, though AC reliance impacts budgets. Job seekers value this for work-life balance via higher-ed-jobs/faculty.
Annual extras: $200-400 sunglasses/sunscreen, $500+ summer utilities. No heavy gear; fans/AC units $100-300. Insurance covers flood/heat. Prepare with free-resume-template for local jobs on university-jobs.
Heat raises dehydration risks, dust allergies; dry air aids respiratory but needs moisturizers. Campus shuttles handle storms; biking popular in mild weather. University clinics offer heat illness checks. Impacts focus: cooler months ideal for research. Link to Rate My Professor at Arizona State University Foundation for climate insights.
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Students at Arizona State University Foundation rave about endless sunny days boosting outdoor study vibes, but lament summer scorchers forcing indoor marathons. Many discuss how the local climate impacts focus and productivity during heat waves, with monsoons adding excitement yet flood worries; read their detailed experiences alongside professor reviews on Rate My Professor. Dry air keeps sickness low, enhancing liveability. Faculty note mild winters perfect for conferences. Dive into Rate My Professor for Arizona State University Foundation specifics.
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