US 180 northwest of Flagstaff and other highways near popular snow-play areas are likely to see longer lines of traffic as the day progresses, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.
The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has some advice for those wanting to play in the snow:
With a longer New Year’s weekend on many people’s calendars, be prepared spend extended time in winter weather.
It’s unsafe to park along highway shoulders to play, and you also shouldn’t sled or play on slopes next to highways.
Take winter coats, blankets, a fully charged cellphone and portable charger, plenty of fuel, drinking water, snacks and essential medications.
Use designated parking areas and never stop along highways to play in the snow.
Highway shoulders are for emergencies, and stopping there can put you, your passengers and other drivers at risk.
First responders often need to use highway shoulders, and a snowplow can hurl snow and ice far off the highway.
Signs along US 180 northwest of Flagstaff note that highway shoulders are for emergencies only.
Research where you plan to play in the snow and what designated parking is available there.
If your destination is the Flagstaff area, the Flagstaff Convention & Visitors Bureau lists snow-play locations at FlagstaffArizona.org (follow the Winter Recreation link) and offers a hotline at 844.256.SNOW.
Be sure to check highway conditions before hitting the road and look at the latest weather forecast.