Climate & Weather
How Elevation Affects Weather: A Complete Guide
Discover the fascinating relationship between elevation and weather patterns.
Elevation of Tucson, Arizona
728 meters elevation
Sea Level (0m)Mount Everest (8,848m)
-4.7°C
Temperature Drop
92.9kPa
Air Pressure
91.7%
Oxygen Level
Quick Facts
Elevation728 meters
Everest Comparison8.2% of Everest
Altitude Risk✅ Low RiskBelow altitude sickness threshold
RegionArizona
Highest PointMount Lemmon (2791 meters)
Notable Landmarks
Sentinel Peak (A Mountain)
876 meterselevation
Mount Lemmon Ski Valley
2499 meterselevation
Gates Pass
991 meterselevation
Saguaro National Park East
945 meterselevation
Sabino Canyon Recreation Area
832 meterselevation
Geographic Features
Tucson spreads across a broad valley at 728 meters, surrounded by five mountain ranges: the Santa Catalinas, Rincons, Santa Ritas, Tucson Mountains, and Tortolitas. The basin occupies part of the Sonoran Desert, with the geology revealing complex interactions between ancient metamorphic cores and more recent basin fill deposits. The surrounding Sky Islands rise dramatically from the desert floor, creating remarkable biodiversity across elevation gradients. The Rillito and Santa Cruz Rivers, though usually dry, have shaped the valley through millennia of flood events.
Climate Impact
At 728 meters, Tucson experiences a desert climate moderated by its elevation compared to lower desert regions. The elevation creates noticeable temperature variations, with summer highs reaching 41°C and winter lows dropping to 2°C. Annual rainfall averages 30cm, divided between winter storms and summer monsoons. The surrounding mountains influence local weather patterns, particularly during the monsoon season when storms build over the high terrain. The atmospheric pressure is approximately 93% of sea level, while Mount Lemmon offers an escape to alpine conditions just an hour from the desert floor. The growing season extends nearly year-round in the valley, though frost can occur during winter nights.
Historical Context
Tucson's relationship with elevation traces back to prehistoric Hohokam settlements that utilized different ecological zones for survival. The Spanish presidio's location at 728 meters reflected understanding of flood patterns and access to water resources. The development of Mount Lemmon Highway in the 1920s (the Catalina Highway) created one of the most dramatic elevation gains in the Southwest, climbing from desert to pine forest in 27 miles. The establishment of Davis-Monthan Air Force Base took advantage of the high-altitude, clear weather conditions perfect for aircraft operations. Modern Tucson demonstrates sophisticated adaptations to its elevation through water harvesting requirements and building codes that address both extreme heat and occasional freezing conditions.
Cities with Similar Elevation
FAQs: Tucson's Elevation
What is the elevation of Tucson?
Tucson has an elevation of 728 meters, which influences its climate and environment.
How does Tucson's elevation affect its weather?
The elevation of Tucson (728 meters) significantly impacts its local climate, affecting temperature ranges, precipitation patterns, and atmospheric pressure.
What are the highest points near Tucson?
The highest point in Tucson is Mount Lemmon (2791 meters), providing unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
