Rio Salado College weather features a hot desert climate in Tempe, Arizona, with abundant sunshine (over 3,800 hours annually) and mild winters drawing many students and faculty. Average highs reach 106°F (41°C) in July and drop to 68°F (20°C) in January, while lows range from 82°F (28°C) to 45°F (7°C). Precipitation is minimal at 8 inches (20 cm) per year, mostly during summer monsoons. This environment supports outdoor campus activities but requires preparation for extreme heat. Environmental factors like low altitude (1,150 ft or 350 m) and Sonoran Desert geology influence dust storms and flash floods. Air quality is generally good (AQI 30-50), though ozone and particulates rise in summer. Natural hazards include heat waves, haboobs, wildfires, and rare floods, with the college providing emergency alerts. Liveability ratings highlight comfort for dry conditions but note summer challenges. Considering higher ed jobs at Rio Salado College? AcademicJobs.com offers insights into how Tempe's weather impacts daily life, costs, and safety for job seekers, students, parents, and staff.
Tempe enjoys a subtropical desert climate with extreme summer heat and pleasant winters. Annual average temperature is 74°F (23°C), with 299 sunny days yearly. Summers bring highs over 100°F (38°C) from May to September, cooling to comfortable 70s°F (21-26°C) in winter. Extremes include a record 122°F (50°C) and 18°F (-8°C). Monsoon season (July-September) delivers brief but intense rains, averaging 2 inches (5 cm) total summer precipitation. This weather suits year-round outdoor studying but demands hydration and sun protection. For broader opportunities, check Academic Jobs in United States, Academic Jobs in Arizona, or Academic Jobs in Tempe.
Seasonal shifts at Rio Salado College reflect Tempe's arid patterns. Winter offers ideal studying weather with highs of 65-70°F (18-21°C) and minimal rain. Spring warms quickly to 85°F (29°C) averages. Summer peaks at 105°F (41°C) with monsoon thunderstorms causing occasional disruptions; the college advises indoor activities and water stations. Fall cools to 90°F (32°C) highs. Extra costs include $200-300 yearly for AC utilities and summer clothing like shorts and sunscreen. Safety tips: Use campus shuttles during heat; invest in UV gear. No heavy winter clothing needed, saving on boots or coats.
Highs 105°F (41°C), lows 82°F (28°C), monsoon rains.
Highs 68°F (20°C), lows 45°F (7°C), dry and sunny.
Tempe sits at 1,150 ft (350 m) elevation in the Sonoran Desert, with flat valley geology prone to dust. No active volcanoes nearby. Air quality averages AQI 40 (good), but summer ozone reaches moderate levels affecting sensitive groups; Rio Salado College promotes indoor air filtration. Low humidity (20-40%) aids comfort but dries skin. University supports with wellness programs. Explore higher ed career advice for relocation tips amid these factors.
Tempe faces heat waves (over 110°F/43°C frequent), flash floods from monsoons, dust storms (haboobs), prolonged droughts, and distant wildfires. Severe weather occurs 5-10 days yearly; floods rare but impactful. Earthquakes minimal. Rio Salado College follows Maricopa alerts, with online emergency protocols, evacuation apps, and cooling centers. Safety measures include heat policies and flood watches.
| Hazard | Frequency | College Response |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Waves | Summer monthly | Hydration stations, alerts |
| Flash Floods | Monsoon season | Evacuation plans |
| Dust Storms | Yearly 2-5 | Visibility warnings |
Ratings for Tempe weather aid decisions for Rio Salado College students and faculty. High scores reflect sunny appeal and low precip, tempered by heat.
These ratings influence campus life; many thrive year-round. See Rate My Professor at Rio Salado College for faculty insights.
Tempe weather adds $150-250/year for summer AC (higher utilities), $100 for sun gear, and low insurance premiums due to few storms. Minimal winter costs. Essentials: Sunscreen, hats, water bottles, portable fans; no umbrellas needed often. For budgeting, visit university salaries on AcademicJobs.com. Job seekers can find community college jobs here.
Extreme heat risks dehydration and heat exhaustion; low humidity aids allergies but prompts moisturizers. Air quality supports active campus life, though pollen peaks spring. Transportation: Bikes ideal year-round except peak summer. College offers health clinics and mental wellness for climate stress. Dry conditions enhance focus for online-heavy programs. Check Rate My Professor for student experiences on environment's study impact.
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Students at Rio Salado College appreciate Tempe's sunny weather for outdoor breaks, noting how mild winters boost motivation during exams. However, intense summer heat often shifts focus indoors, with many mentioning AC reliance and early classes to beat peaks. Dust storms disrupt briefly, but low rain keeps commutes reliable. Many discuss how the local climate impacts focus and productivity; read their detailed experiences alongside professor reviews on Rate My Professor. Feedback highlights resilience-building from heat, aiding long study sessions. Parents value safety from low disaster frequency.
Explore higher ed jobs or adjunct professor jobs while considering these insights. AcademicJobs.com connects you to research jobs and more.
overcast clouds
Rio Salado College weather today expect overcast clouds. The temperature will hit a high of 98°F (feels like 96°F). Humidity sits at 22%, with winds up to 11.01 mph.
broken clouds
Rio Salado College weather tomorrow expect broken clouds. The temperature will hit a high of 104°F. Humidity sits at 0%, with winds up to 0 mph.
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