The Sonoran Desert receives an average annual rainfall of 10-12 inches.

The Sonoran Desert typically receives 10-12 inches of rain annually, which is considered moderate for a desert environment. This rainfall occurs in two main seasons: the summer monsoon, bringing intense thunderstorms, and the winter season, which delivers lighter, more consistent rain. Although this desert is arid, the rainfall supports a wide range of ecosystems, from cactus forests to desert grasslands. The unique combination of seasonal rainfall and dry periods helps the Sonoran Desert maintain its biodiversity, making it one of the richest deserts in terms of plant and animal life in North America.