Winter storm brought rain, snow to Arizona (Dec. 22)
PHOENIX - Several weather alerts were issued for Arizona, including a Flood Watch for the Valley, as rain is expected to fall through the weekend.
The Flood Watch was issued for the Phoenix area through 6 a.m. on Dec. 23.
"Heavy rain and thunderstorms will occur in southern California and southern Arizona through Friday night, with flash flooding and mud/debris flows possible," the National Weather Service wrote on X. "Gusty winds will also occur, as well as mountain snow above 7000 feet."
The winter storm is expected to bring snow to Arizona's high country.
"Welcome Winter 2023, we will get started right away. Plenty of rain and snow on the way, starting early Friday and lasting through at least Saturday," NWS Flagstaff wrote on X. "Most locations will be rainy, but expect higher elevations to eventually get in on the snow action by Friday night."
Incoming rain could affect holiday weekend plans in Arizona
A rainy forecast has raised the question of whether events will be cancelled in the Phoenix area for the upcoming holiday weekend.
In southern Arizona, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect through Saturday evening.
"Rain will be on and off all day for most of SE Arizona and will last into tomorrow morning," NWS Tucson wrote on X. "Some areas have already seen 0.10-0.30 inches of rain along the int'l border and western/central Pima county."
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.
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Driving expert gives tips on driving in the rain
Driving in the rain can post some significant hazards, such as reduced visibility and longer breaking distance. In addition, slick roads can also increase the potential for accidents. FOX 10 Photojournalist Joe Tillman spend the day at a racing school in the Phoenix area to get some tips on how to drive when it's rainy outside.
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- Call 511 anywhere in Arizona or 1-888-411-ROAD (7623)
- az511.com
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.
Rain/flood safety tips
The American Red Cross' tips for heavy rain situations and flood safety:
- Turn around don’t drown! If you must drive and you encounter a flooded roadway, turn around and go another way.
- If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground.
- Tune in to your local radio, NOAA radio, or news channels for the latest updates.
- If your neighborhood is prone to flooding, be prepared to evacuate quickly.
- Follow evacuation orders and do not attempt to return until officials say it is safe.
- If power lines are down, do not step in puddles or standing water.
- If power is out, use a flashlight. Do not use any open flame as alternate lighting.