Know Snow

Budget extra time, slow down with snow and rain starting Monday night

From snow in the high country to rain at lower elevations, a winter storm is forecast to create difficult driving conditions across Arizona starting Monday evening.
 
Drivers should budget extra time, slow down and be ready to put off travel during the worst weather.

Drivers should expect potentially hazardous driving conditions in higher elevations of northern Arizona as a late-season winter storm is expected to bring rain and snow to parts of the state through Thursday morning, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.

The combination of a winter holiday weekend and recent snow can be a magnet for those looking to ski, sled or toss a few snowballs.

If you’re heading to play in the snow, be ready for the possibility that you’ll see heavy traffic and delays, especially on the trip home, in popular areas such as US 180 northwest of Flagstaff.

After a day of snow in Arizona’s high country, you’re likely to have company heading north Sunday to toss snowballs, make snow angels, etc.

Have a great time if you go. But do some essential research first, leave prepared to spend extended time in winter weather and avoid parking along highways to play in the snow. 

 Because of the rapidly changing nature of winter storms, the Interstate 40 grade west of Williams got so much snow in brief period overnight Tuesday that the freeway temporarily closed.

With two holiday weekends approaching and snow in the forecast, travelers should expect plenty of company at snow-play areas, including those along US 180 outside Flagstaff, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.

Leave prepared if heading to Arizona’s high country, starting with the knowledge that traffic can be heavy and conditions can be challenging, leading to more time than expected in wintry weather. Here are other ways to make your trip safer and more enjoyable:

Make sure you pack some patience and play it smart when heading out on the highways for Thanksgiving weekend.

Doing so could save your life, as last year’s was the deadliest Thanksgiving weekend on state highways and local roads in the past decade. The toll a year ago: 18 people killed, six of them in crashes involving impaired drivers.