This reanalysis combines a variety of wide-area measurements in a state-of-the-art global meteorological model to reconstruct the hourly history of weather throughout the world on a 50-kilometer grid. Please note that each source's contribution is adjusted for elevation and the relative change present in the MERRA-2 data.Īll data relating to the Sun's position (e.g., sunrise and sunset) are computed using astronomical formulas from the book, Astronomical Algorithms 2nd Edition, by Jean Meeus.Īll other weather data, including cloud cover, precipitation, wind speed and direction, and solar flux, come from NASA's MERRA-2 Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis. To get a sense of how much these sources agree with each other, you can view a comparison of Tucson and the stations that contribute to our estimates of its temperature history and climate. KDMA, 52% 5 mi, 217 ft KTUS, 47% 6 mi, 59 ft KCGZ, 1% 70 mi, -1,027 ft © OpenStreetMap contributors Casa Grande Municipal Airport (KCGZ, 1.3%, 70 mi, northwest, -1,027 ft elevation change).Tucson International Airport (KTUS, 47%, 6 mi, south, 59 ft elevation change).Allied Airstrip (KDMA, 52%, 5 mi, southeast, 217 ft elevation change).The stations contributing to this reconstruction are: The estimated value at Tucson is computed as the weighted average of the individual contributions from each station, with weights proportional to the inverse of the distance between Tucson and a given station. There are 3 weather stations near enough to contribute to our estimation of the temperature and dew point in Tucson.įor each station, the records are corrected for the elevation difference between that station and Tucson according to the International Standard Atmosphere, and by the relative change present in the MERRA-2 satellite-era reanalysis between the two locations. Take advantage of the scenic overlooks and rest areas by bringing along a picnic – another recommendation from past visitors.This report illustrates the typical weather in Tucson, based on a statistical analysis of historical hourly weather reports and model reconstructions from Januto December 31, 2016. Along with the stunning vantage point, the ride up also provides a reprieve from the desert heat travelers said the temperature drops as you climb higher along the byway. Recent visitors highly recommended making the drive, which many described as "spectacular" and a "must-do" when in Tucson. Aside from the arresting canyon and mountain views, the nearly 60-mile round-trip byway offers visitors the biological equivalent of driving from the deserts of Mexico to the forests of Canada (the road begins in the lower Sonoran vegetative life zone and ascends to the high forests in the Canadian zone).To learn more about the area, visitors can stop by the Palisades Visitor Center along their drive. Regarded as one of the most scenic drives in southeast Arizona, the Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway (also known as Catalina Highway Scenic Drive) is the only paved road to take travelers to the upper reaches of Mount Lemmon and the Santa Catalina Range. Aside from the flora and fauna, visitors also praised the knowledgeable docents. Reviewers also advised stopping by in the morning or near closing as that's when the animals are most active. Just make sure you come prepared: bring a refillable water bottle for the numerous fill stations, wear appropriate walking shoes, sun protection and sunscreen (though, if you forget your sunscreen, there are dispensers in the on-site bathrooms). Recent visitors enjoyed their time at the museum and highly recommended future travelers set aside a few hours to explore the attraction's grounds and educational exhibits. Strolling along the museum's 2 miles of hiking trails, visitors get acquainted with the desert landscape via animal exhibits that mingle with native plants. And if you feel hungry after your leisurely hike, you can enjoy a meal at one of the museum's three eateries, all of which have great views of the surrounding desert. Next to the entrance plaza, visitors pass the Warden Aquarium and Reptile, Amphibian & Invertebrate Hall before heading out to explore the rest of the exhibits via walking paths. Across the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum's 98 acres, you'll find 230 animal species – including hummingbirds, coyotes and string rays – along with 1,200 local plant species. In fact, 85% of what you'll experience is outdoors and requires walking (dress accordingly). Although it's called a "museum," this facility, which is home to animals, a botanical garden, an aquarium and an art gallery – is more of a zoo.
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