snow

The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office is warning backcountry mountain travelers to be  alert for potential avalanche and other winter hazards on the San Francisco Peaks. Due to the recent heavy snowfall dangerous avalanche conditions may exist and may remain potentially hazardous for long periods. It is important for backcountry travelers to be aware that no avalanche control is conductedin the backcountry outside of the Arizona Snowbowl Ski Area boundary. Additionally, there is no regular patrol of the  backcountry.

Since the National Weather Service is predicting up to 6 inches of snow in the Flagstaff area as well as other locations above 5,000 feet through Thursday, the Arizona Department of Transportation advises drivers to check road conditions and be prepared before heading into the state's high country.

Coconino County Public Works crews are prepared to keep County roads open and passable during the first snowstorm of the 2022-2023 winter season, which is forecast to hit Northern Arizona this week.

According to the National Weather Service, rain and snow showers are expected across northern Arizona starting Wednesday night and lasting into Friday, with the heaviest expected Thursday morning/afternoon. Minor accumulations are expected down to about 5000 feet with around 4 to 6 inches expected above 6500 feet.