AZ511 is now better than ever with real-time weather info

AZ511, the ultimate travel companion for Arizona motorists, just got even better. 

People have become accustomed to using the AZ511 website and app to get information on traffic, construction delays, closures, restrictions and freeway cameras.

Now they can get weather information in 21 areas across the state.

"The Road Weather Information System (RWIS) data shows drivers real-time information via environmental sensors,” said Statewide Road Weather Manager Kevin Duby. “For example, if it's raining, those sensors will communicate that information to the system and that information will appear to AZ511 users."

Wondering if you should delay travel plans when winter weather is present? The website will tell you if the road is icy and you can plan accordingly. If you're a commercial truck driver, you can use the website to find out how windy it is along your route. You can even find out the temperature. 

"We think this will prove to be an invaluable tool for motorists," Duby said. "This is just one of many ways the Arizona Department of Transportation is driving innovation and making travel safer for the public."

"During adverse weather, motorists need to know if they can safely travel, or if they need to delay their departure or choose a different route," Duby said. "This new tool will help them make an informed choice."

To view the data on az511.gov, users toggle on the “Cameras” layer, select a camera on the map, and if the selected camera has RWIS data, the data will appear under the camera image. Users can see current surface and air temperatures, wind speeds and the level of grip (road condition).

Duby added that the new feature is still a work in progress, and more updates and improvements are coming.

The RWIS feature is currently available at az511.gov, though plans are in the works to add it to the AZ511 app, too, Duby said. Anyone can download the AZ511 app, by going to https://www.az511.com/about/mobileapp. There they will find an option for iPhone users and Android users. Alternatively, they can go to az511.gov. 

The new weather feature is among many others motorists can access by clicking on the dropdown box labeled "Legend." Some of those features include an option to see where there's slow traffic, rest areas locations and planned roadwork.