Another round of winter storms move into Arizona
PHOENIX - It's been a week of wild weather here in Arizona and Mother Nature isn't done yet.
Northern Arizona saw several feet of snow earlier in the week and the storm also brought some much needed rain to the Valley, but it also caused some problems as strong winds took out power lines in north Phoenix.
Rainy weather in the Phoenix-metro area
We caught up with some hikers on Jan. 29 who said they're looking forward to more rain.
"I got wet twice this week already .. I always get an early start but I just could not beat the rain every day this week, but I love this."
"It's honestly amazing.. all that beautiful precipitation that the plants love and in between rainstorms you can go on these hikes where all the plants are just blooming."
More snowfall expected for the high country
Here's a look at the snow predictions for northern Arizona from the National Weather Service: 4 to 6 inches in Flagstaff, 1 to 3 inches in Prescott and Payson. That may not seem like a lot, but keep in mind these cities have already seen plenty of snowfall, so this just adds to those totals.
You can check the latest weather conditions by visiting the FOX 10 Phoenix weather page, or download the Free FOX 10 Weather app, which is available on Apple iOS and Android.
Snowfall is good news for High Country
With recent winter storms bringing significant snow, tickets at Arizona Snowbowl are sold out through Feb. 1, as skiers and snowboarders look forward to take advantage of the fresh powder.
"It’s been absolutely incredible with the new snowfall we’ve had," said Snowbowl Marketing Manager Li Cui. "Just for comparison sake, we’ve had over 30 inches of snow in the first two months of opening, and then in the last week or so, we’ve gotten five feet of snow, so it's just staggering how much snow there is."
Li said Snowbowl is limiting the number of people due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
"It’s first come, first serve access for pass holders and particular guests, so once we access the situation on the mountain, look at our lines, our lodges, then we will limit the traffic at the base of the road," said Li.
Li says people should also make sure their vehicle is ready.
"Just to be prepared this weekend, with new snow chains or four-wheel drive is going to be required on the mountain, so having a plan and being prepared for the road conditions, being prepared for the weather and just expecting potential delays as well," said Li.
Road Conditions
- Call 511 anywhere in Arizona or 1-888-411-ROAD (7623)
- az511.com
Tune in to FOX 10 Phoenix for the latest news:
Leave prepared before heading north
After recent snowfall in the high country, the Arizona Department of Transportation is reminding drivers who are heading north to never park along highways to play in the snow.
Use the highway shoulders for emergencies only. Parking on them to play in the snow is hazardous in the following ways:
- Other drivers may be distracted by your vehicle.
- Other drivers may pull over as well to play in the snow, compounding the problem.
- Your vehicle may interfere with first responders who need to use the shoulder.
- Plows can throw snow and ice far off highways.
- It’s much safer to re-enter highways from on-ramps and other designated entrances
"Also, it’s not uncommon for lots of desert dwellers to take the opportunity to head north to play in the snow. So, remember to pack your patience and expect to spend extended time in your vehicle getting to and from snow play areas."
ADOT's suggestions for items to take along:
- Warm clothing and blankets
- A fully charged mobile phone and charger
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Drinking water
- Healthy snacks
- First-aid kit and necessary medications
- Ice scraper
- Small bag of sand or kitty litter for wheel traction
- Small folding shovel for snow removal
- Travel tool kit and battery cables
- Safety flares
- Plastic bags or containers for sanitation
- Road map(s)
ADOT says you and your vehicle must be prepared for driving in wintry conditions, including snow, ice and freezing temperatures.
- Get plenty of rest
- Plan your route in advance and notify someone about your route, destination and arrival time
- Take frequent breaks from driving
- Make sure your fuel tank is at least half to three-quarters full at all times
- Use snow tires, chains or studded tires as recommended or required. Studded tires are permitted on Arizona highways from Oct. 1 to May 1.
- Ensure your wipers, window defroster, headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals work
- Change your motor oil to a winter grade
- For electric or hybrid vehicles, be sure the battery has sufficient voltage and the connection cables are tight
Get more safety tips at https://azdot.gov/KnowSnow
For Flagstaff area snow-play locations, see FlagstaffArizona.org's Winter Recreation Map or call 844-256-SNOW.
