The National Weather Service is forecasting up to three inches of snowfall at the 5,500- to 8,000-foot elevation, including 3-6 inches of snow possible above 8,000 feet due to a cold front moving into northern Arizona.
While ADOT is gearing up to clear snow and ice from highways, drivers are warned to be prepared.
According to ADOT, because of Arizona’s diverse climate, travelers can find themselves driving from the sunny, moderate climate of the low desert to ice and snow in the state’s mountain regions in just a couple of hours. Winter weather conditions can quickly cause havoc with travel plans and businesses. Motorists need to be prepared for hazardous driving in snowy and icy conditions — and they need to watch for snowplows on the road. With that in mind, ADOT recommends the following winter driving tips:
Slow down, be patient and drive safely. Plan for extra travel time. Use extra caution around snowplows.
Be alert: ice forms on bridges first and is hard to see.
When driving behind a snowplow, stay back at least four car lengths. If you think you’re traveling too close to a plow, you probably are.
Never pass a snowplow that’s in the process of clearing snow and ice off the road.
Maintain at least a three-quarter-full tank of gas.
Notify someone of your travel route, destination and projected arrival time.
Carry an emergency preparedness kit in your vehicle that includes blankets, extra clothes, a flashlight, an ice scraper, a shovel, sand for traction, a fully charged cell phone, and hazard warning lights or reflectors.
Brake slowly to avoid any panic braking or jerking the steering wheel.
Increase the distance between you and the traffic ahead.
Carry plenty of food and water, and all necessary medications.
Carry tire chains and snow cables, or use snow tires.
Wear warm clothes to protect you during extended time periods in cold temperatures.