Snow covered desert and saguaro cactus.

Winter Weather

Winter weather in Arizona can be harsh and unforgiving. Winter storms can range from a moderate snow over a few hours to a blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days. Many winter storms come with dangerously low temperatures and sometimes strong winds, ice, sleet and freezing rain. The winter weather's ability to knock out utility services to your home or office is a primary safety concern. Heavy snowfall and extreme cold can immobilize an entire region.

While the danger from winter weather varies across the state, nearly all Arizonans are likely to face severe weather at some point. It is important to be prepared for winter weather before it strikes. 

  • Know where it snows in Arizona. 
  • Sign up for your local county or tribal emergency alerts.
  • Create an emergency go kit for your car: Include jumper cables, sand, a flashlight, windshield scraper, battery-powered radio, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water, and nonperishable snacks. Incorporate supplies to help keep you and your family healthy, such as face coverings, hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes.
  • Keep the gas tank full.
  • Make a Family Communication Plan. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to know how you will contact one another, how you will get back together and what you will do in case of an emergency.
  • Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days without power. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication. Do not forget the needs of pets. Have extra batteries for radios and flashlights.
  • Prepare your home to keep out the cold with caulking, weather stripping, and insulation as necessary. Learn how to keep pipes from freezing. Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups.
  • Learn the signs of, and basic treatments for, frostbite and hypothermia.
  • Familiarize yourself with key alert terms for winter weather, such as "Winter Storm Outlook" and "Blizzard Warning."
  • Consider physical distancing recommendations, wearing face coverings or other public health recommendations.

  • Check antifreeze levels. 
  • Check battery and ignition systems. Battery terminals should be clean. 
  • Check brakes for wear and fluid levels.
  • Check the exhaust system for leaks and crimped pipes and repair or replace as necessary. Carbon monoxide is deadly and usually gives no warning.
  • Replace and keep water out of fuel and air filters by using additives and maintaining a full tank of gas. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.
  • Ensure the heater and defroster work properly.
  • Check lights and flashing hazard lights. Check the oil level and weight. Heavier oils solidify more at low temperatures and do not lubricate as well.
  • Ensure the thermostat works properly.
  • Repair or replace windshield wipers equipment, and maintain proper washer fluid level.
  • Install good winter tires with adequate tread. All-weather radial tires are usually adequate for most winter conditions. However, some jurisdictions require that to drive on their roads, vehicles must be equipped with chains or snow tires with studs.

  • Winterize your home to extend the life of your fuel supply by insulating walls and attics, caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows, or covering windows with plastic.
  • Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year.
  • Insulate pipes with insulation or newspapers and plastic and allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather to avoid freezing. Running water, even at a trickle, helps prevent pipes from freezing.
  • All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside and kept clear.
  • Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure everyone in your house knows how to use them. House fires pose an additional risk, as more people turn to alternate heating sources without taking the necessary safety precautions.

  • Stay indoors during the storm.
  • Stay off roads if at all possible. If trapped in your car, then stay inside. 
  • Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Only use generators and grills outdoors and away from windows. Never heat your home with a gas stovetop or oven.
  • Check on neighbors. Older adults and young children are more at risk in extreme cold.
  • If you must drive: travel during daytime; don’t travel alone; tell other people your schedule; stay on main roads and avoid back road shortcuts. Let someone know your destination, your route, and when you expect to arrive. 
  • Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia
  • Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or other local news channels for critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS).

If a blizzard traps you in the car:

  • Pull off the highway. Turn on hazard lights and hang a distress flag from the radio antenna or window.
  • Stay in your vehicle where rescuers are most likely to find you. Do not walk away from your vehicle unless help or a safe structure is visible within 100 yards.  Run the engine and heater about 10 minutes each hour to keep warm. When the engine is running, open a downwind window slightly for ventilation, turn on the interior light, and periodically clear snow from the exhaust pipe. This will protect you from possible carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • Clap your hands and move your arms and legs occasionally to maintain body heat, but avoid overexertion. In extreme cold, use road maps, seat covers, and floor mats for insulation. Huddle with passengers and use your coat for a blanket.
  • Take turns sleeping. One person should be awake at all times to look for rescue crews.
  • Eat regularly and drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

  • Check on neighbors. Older adults and young children are more at risk in extreme cold.
  • Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow. Overexertion can bring on a heart attack—a major cause of death in the winter. If you must shovel snow, stretch before going outside.
  •  Maintain your car’s winter emergency go kit for the remainder of the season.