Travel advisory for winter storm
PHOENIX – Arizona’s high country is expected to see significant snowfall through Tuesday. Winter weather advisories and a winter storm warning have been issued by the National Weather Service. Motorists are advised to use caution and consider delaying travel.
ADOT snowplows will be out in force, but driving conditions can deteriorate quickly during a winter storm. A highway can close suddenly if enough snow falls in a brief period or if there are crashes, slide-offs or both. The safest decision when snow falls is delaying travel until the storm passes and highways have been cleared.
In addition to the obvious danger if your vehicle and others are stuck on or along a snow-covered highway, stranded vehicles also make clearing the roadway much more difficult and time-consuming for ADOT snowplows. Before deciding whether and when to travel, check weather reports and get the latest highway conditions by visiting az511.gov, calling 511 or reviewing ADOT’s Twitter feed (@ArizonaDOT).
If delaying travel isn’t possible, leave prepared for the possibility that you’ll spend extended time in winter conditions. Pack an emergency kit with items like extra blankets, warm clothes, food and water, cat litter or sand for traction, a first-aid kit and a fully charged cellphone. Those looking to head up north to play in the snow should remember that highway shoulders are for emergencies only. In addition to endangering you and your passengers, parking on a highway shoulder to play in the snow can distract other drivers and interfere with first responders who may need to use the shoulder.
Slow down and drive for the conditions you’re in. Be sure to leave extra room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. Give snowplows plenty of room to work. Avoid passing a plow until the driver pulls aside to let traffic by. For more winter-driving tips, visit azdot.gov/KnowSnow.
