University Hosted Monsoon Forecast Competition

The University of Arizona Institute for Resilience launched a new weekly ranking challenge for monsoon rainfall.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Forecasts

Bold vector editorial illustration showing a desert cactus beneath storm clouds and diagonal rain, representing regional weather forecasting. — The University of Arizona's Institute for Resilience has launched a weekly monsoon rainfall forecasting competition for local residents and professional meteorologists. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Would you participate in a local community contest to predict regional weather patterns?

The University of Arizona Institute for Resilience has opened registration for its annual monsoon forecast game. Participants compete to accurately predict rainfall totals across five Southwestern cities.

Why it matters

The game engages both local residents and professional meteorologists in analyzing regional climate patterns. The new head-to-head format adds a layer of competitive tracking throughout the monsoon season.

The competition tracks rainfall totals across 5 designated Southwestern cities. Participants are required to provide weekly forecasts for Tucson International Airport to advance in the rankings.

The players

University of Arizona Institute for Resilience

This research organization focuses on developing strategies for adaptation and resilience against environmental change.

National Weather Service

This federal agency provides weather, water, and climate forecasts and warnings for the protection of life and property.

The details

Players earn rankings by consistently outperforming opponents in predicting weekly precipitation levels. The season culminates in a final matchup between the two highest-ranked participants.

Registration for the monsoon forecast competition is currently open as of September 2026.

Seasonal Patterns

This competitive model follows the University of Arizona Institute for Resilience's climate engagement initiatives by turning seasonal weather tracking into an interactive, public-facing exercise.

Local residents can participate by registering to submit their own rainfall predictions against other community members. Monitoring these forecasts provides insight into regional weather variability throughout the monsoon season.

The takeaway

Gamification offers a unique way for the public to engage with professional meteorological data and seasonal climate shifts. Participants can sharpen their analytical skills by tracking rainfall data against both neighbors and experts.

What happens next

The monsoon season concludes at the end of the year, at which point the final head-to-head playoff between the top two ranked participants will occur.