Know Snow

Get ready for winter: First highways close in November

Get ready for winter: First highways close in November

SR24-1

Get ready for winter: First highways close in November

Get ready for winter: First highways close in November

By Laurie Merrill / ADOT Communications
November 12, 2021

It seems like just weeks ago that Arizona was sweltering under one of the hottest summers on record, with many Arizonans seeking refuge in pools or under tall trees in high country.

But those days are in the rear-view mirror. It’s November, the weather is cooler, the holidays are upon us and winter is ready to pounce.

Although the official start of winter is Dec. 21, in Arizona, winter conditions begin much earlier.

Depending on the timing and severity of major snow storms, the Arizona Department of Transportation typically closes two highways for the season in November and three others in December.

Snow begins melting and roads become passable again in April and May.

So, without further adieu, here is a list of the annual road closures:  

  • A portion of State Route 366, also known as “The Swift Trail,” that’s at the end of pavement above Shannon Campground on Mount Graham: Typically closes Nov. 15 and reopens April 15. 
  • State Route 473 between State Route 260 and Hawley Lake in the White Mountains: Typically closes Nov. 30 and reopens April 15.
  • State Route 67 between Jacob Lake (US 89A) and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park: Typically closes Dec. 1 and reopens May 15.
  • State Route 261 between Eager and Big Lake in the White Mountains: Typically closes Dec. 31 and reopens April 15.  
  • State Route 273 between Sunrise Park and Big Lake in the White Mountains: Typically closes Dec. 31 and reopens April 15. 

What about navigating snowy roads that remain open?

ADOT’s Know Snow website is packed with tips on how to stay safe, warm and prepared for any journey on which you might encounter snow or ice. We recommend visiting the website.

One of the most important tips takes place before you ever get behind the wheel: Research weather conditions. Visit az511.gov or dial 511 for updated road conditions. Follow ADOT's Twitter account at @ArizonaDOT. However, never use a cellphone or mobile device while driving.

If it's going to be a big storm, you might choose to sit it out. That way ADOT’s nearly 200 snowplows can clear the roadways.

Did you know that ADOT's commercially licensed plow drivers – 400 of them in all – typically work 12-hour shifts during storms? Did you know that the safest place to be is four car lengths behind a snowplow, and that it's never safe to pass one until it pulls over to let you by? Did you know that ADOT annually spends between $5 million and $8 million on winter safety operations?

You also can reduce the chances of getting caught out in the cold by downloading the free ADOT Alerts app available for iOS and Android. Using geofencing technology, the app will alert you to major events on highways, including any closures prompted by snowfall.

For more facts and tips, please check out our Know Snow website. You’ll be glad you did.

ADOT advises waiting before traveling due to snow in forecast

ADOT advises waiting before traveling due to snow in forecast

I-17 101 traffic interchange

ADOT advises waiting before traveling due to snow in forecast

ADOT advises waiting before traveling due to snow in forecast

March 23, 2021

PHOENIX – With snow forecasted in Arizona’s high country beginning this evening through tomorrow, the Arizona Department of Transportation advises drivers to consider delaying all but essential travel before heading north.

Check road conditions by calling 511 or visiting az511.gov. ADOT’s Twitter account (@ArizonaDOT) and Facebook page (facebook.com/AZDOT) provide real-time information and interaction. And the free ADOT Alerts app available at azdot.gov/ADOTAlerts will send critical information, including alternate routes, should snow and ice close a major highway.

Waiting out a storm before traveling is the safest and most efficient option because it allows ADOT’s snowplows to clear the highways more quickly. A highway takes much longer to plow when it’s crowded with vehicles that shouldn’t be traveling on a roadway that’s slick with snow and ice. 

If delaying travel is not possible, leave prepared with the expectation of spending extended time on the road. Remember to slow down, leave extra room behind the vehicle ahead of you, and pack an emergency kit containing a fully charged cell phone, warm clothing, blankets, food and water, medications and sand or kitty litter in case you get stuck in the snow.

Make sure your gas tank is at least half to three-quarters full at all times, and ensure that your wipers, window defroster, heater, headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals work.

Visit azdot.gov/KnowSnow for more winter driving tips.

Heading north to play in snow this President’s Day weekend?

Heading north to play in snow this President’s Day weekend?

I-17 101 traffic interchange

Heading north to play in snow this President’s Day weekend?

Heading north to play in snow this President’s Day weekend?

February 12, 2021

PHOENIX – A forecasted snowstorm and a long weekend is a great excuse to head north for some snowplay. Too often, however, a vehicle full of people heading to play in the snow winds up parked on the shoulder of a state highway or even Interstate 17 rather than pulled safely into a designated parking area well off the road. This creates a hazard for more than just the occupants. 

The Arizona Department of Transportation reminds those heading to play in the snow that highway shoulders are for emergencies only and that parking on them to play in the snow is hazardous in a number of 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.

These dangers apply along highways other than interstates, including US 180 northwest of Flagstaff, where desert dwellers often go after it snows. Those who park on highway shoulders to play, even in areas where traffic may seem light, are endangering themselves and others. Locations of designated snow-play areas are available at FlagstaffArizona.org (follow the Winter Recreation Map link). There’s also a hotline at 844.256.SNOW.

Also, remember to pack your patience and expect to spend extended time in your vehicle getting to and from snow play areas as lots of people typically head north after it snows.

It’s also important to leave prepared before heading north to play in the snow. ADOT’s suggestions of items to have in a vehicle include warm clothing and blankets, a fully charged mobile phone and charger, a flashlight with extra batteries, drinking water, healthy snacks, a first-aid kit and necessary medications. Get plenty of rest, plan your route and take frequent breaks from driving.

Make sure your gas tank is at least half to three-quarters full at all times, and ensure that your wipers, window defroster, headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals work. 

To stay up-to-date with the latest highway conditions around the state, visit the ADOT Traveler Information website at az511.gov or call 511. ADOT’s Twitter (@ArizonaDOT) and Facebook page (/AZDOT) are excellent sources of information and interaction.

Get more safety tips at azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

AZ's snowy roads are in highly trained hands

AZ's snowy roads are in highly trained hands

SR24-1

AZ's snowy roads are in highly trained hands

AZ's snowy roads are in highly trained hands

By Laurie Merrill / ADOT Communications
February 12, 2021

Flagstaff Snow Plows_012621

Snowplows and their drivers are the big heroes of Arizona snowstorms.

We got to see that during two storms in January that dumped snow so heavy and deep that multiple highways, including Interstate 17, were closed. Now there’s a forecast for more snow this weekend, with the possibility of accumulation in the high country.

But one thing you can rely on is that snowy roads are in the highly trained hands of 400 operators and 200 plows.  

Drivers stand ready to work 12-hour shifts in 45-foot long, 30-ton machines, which costs an average of $320,000.

As technology improves, so does snow removal speed. Check out the cutting edge features new on ADOT’s plows:

  • Cab heaters, so that drivers don’t have to idle.
  • Heated windshields, to stop wipers from freezing.
  • Backup cameras and a camera laser system, to help guide operators.
  • Front flex plows that can bend in different configurations.

Also, TowPlows are in use along Interstate 40 between Flagstaff and Williams. They are attached to plows and allow operators to clear two lanes on a single run.

Did you know the fleet also has snowblowers? These machines can clear out deep snow drifts, moving 4,000 to 5,000 tons of snow per hour and casting out 150 feet in white plume.

Additionally, 25 plows are equipped with new cameras that provide images to district offices. You’ve gotten to see some of these images on social media.

Remember: The safest place on a highway when it’s snowing is trailing a safe distance behind a snowplow. Always stay at least four lengths back. Always respect the plow. Don’t pass a plow unless it pulls over. If you can’t see the plow driver, there’s a good chance the driver can’t see you.

So what is the best advice for driving in a snowstorm? Don’t. It's best to delay travel if at all possible to allow plows to complete their work and avoid hazardous winter driving condtions. If you have to drive, check conditions at AZ511.gov or by using your AZ 511 app. Also check our Know Snow website to make sure you and your vehicle are snowstorm ready. 

ADOT’s Twitter account (@ArizonaDOT) and Facebook page (facebook.com/AZDOT) provide real-time information and interaction. And the free ADOT Alerts app available at azdot.gov/ADOTAlerts will send critical information, including alternate routes, should snow and ice close a major highway.

Reminder: Leave prepared before heading north to play in snow

Reminder: Leave prepared before heading north to play in snow

I-17 101 traffic interchange

Reminder: Leave prepared before heading north to play in snow

Reminder: Leave prepared before heading north to play in snow

January 29, 2021

PHOENIX – A lot of snow has fallen in the high country over the last week and with more forecast, the Arizona Department of Transportation wants to remind drivers who are heading north to leave prepared, be ready to spend extended time on the roads and never park along the highways to play in the snow. 

ADOT reminds those heading to play in the snow that highway shoulders are for emergencies only and that parking on them to play in the snow is hazardous in a number of 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.

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 Map link) and offers a hotline at 844.256.SNOW.

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.

It’s also important to leave prepared before heading north to play in the snow. ADOT’s suggestions of items to have in a vehicle include warm clothing and blankets, a fully charged mobile phone and charger, a flashlight with extra batteries, drinking water, healthy snacks, a first-aid kit and necessary medications. Get plenty of rest, plan your route and take frequent breaks from driving.

Make sure your gas tank is at least half to three-quarters full at all times, and ensure that your wipers, window defroster, headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals work. 

Get more safety tips at azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

With heavy snow forecast, ADOT advises waiting before traveling

With heavy snow forecast, ADOT advises waiting before traveling

I-17 101 traffic interchange

With heavy snow forecast, ADOT advises waiting before traveling

With heavy snow forecast, ADOT advises waiting before traveling

January 21, 2021

PHOENIX – With a pair of storms moving through Arizona’s high country this weekend and early next week, the Arizona Department of Transportation advises drivers to consider delaying all but essential travel before heading north.

Waiting out a storm before traveling is the safest and most efficient option because it allows ADOT’s snowplows to clear the highways more quickly. A highway takes much longer to plow when it’s crowded with vehicles that shouldn’t be traveling on a roadway that’s slick with snow and ice. 

Check road conditions by calling 511 or visiting az511.gov. ADOT’s Twitter account (@ArizonaDOT) and Facebook page (facebook.com/AZDOT) provide real-time information and interaction. And the free ADOT Alerts app available at azdot.gov/ADOTAlerts will send critical information, including alternate routes, should snow and ice close a major highway.

If delaying travel is not possible, leave prepared with the expectation of spending extended time on the road. Remember to slow down, leave extra room behind the vehicle ahead of you, and pack an emergency kit containing a fully charged cell phone, warm clothing, blankets, food and water, medications and sand or kitty litter in case you get stuck in the snow.

While ADOT’s snowplow operators are ready to help you, you should help them in return. Always respect the plow. Avoid passing a snowplow that’s clearing a highway until the driver pulls over to let traffic pass, and never assume a snowplow operator knows your vehicle is nearby. If you can’t see the plow driver, there’s a good chance the driver can’t see you.

Remember: The safest place on a highway when it’s snowing is trailing a safe distance behind a snowplow.

Visit azdot.gov/KnowSnow for more winter driving tips.

If you’re planning on playing in the snow, leave prepared

If you’re planning on playing in the snow, leave prepared

SR24-1

If you’re planning on playing in the snow, leave prepared

If you’re planning on playing in the snow, leave prepared

By Ryan Harding / ADOT Communications
January 21, 2021

One of the great things about Arizona is snow is just an hour or two away by vehicle. But it’s important to resist the urge to just jump in the car and go instead of leaving prepared.

Part of leaving prepared includes checking road conditions at az511.gov before leaving. It also includes packing plenty of warm clothes and an emergency kit that includes things like a fully charged cell phone, blankets, food and water, medications you need and even kitty litter or sand in case you get stuck in the snow.

Leaving prepared also includes remembering these two things:

  1. You may have to spend an extended period of time on the road due to weather or unplanned incidents. It's best to be prepared. 
  2. It’s illegal and unsafe to parking along the highway 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. So use designated parking at snow play areas.

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.

Check azdot.gov/KnowSnow for more winter driving tips.

ADOT reminds drivers to ‘Know Snow’ before heading north

ADOT reminds drivers to ‘Know Snow’ before heading north

I-17 101 traffic interchange

ADOT reminds drivers to ‘Know Snow’ before heading north

ADOT reminds drivers to ‘Know Snow’ before heading north

January 19, 2021

PHOENIX – With snow falling in Arizona’s high country and more snow in the forecast, the Arizona Department of Transportation wants to remind drivers to be prepared before heading up north to play in the snow. 

One of the best things drivers can do is check weather and road conditions before leaving. Waiting out a storm before traveling is the safest and most efficient option because it allows ADOT’s snowplows to clear the highways more quickly. A highway takes much longer to plow when it’s jammed with vehicles that shouldn’t be traveling on a roadway that’s slick with snow and ice.

If you’re heading north to play in the snow, remember to 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. 

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 Map link) and offers a hotline at 844.256.SNOW.

Also remember to expect plenty of company, especially during the weekend, and pack patience as lots of folks from the Phoenix area travel north to play in the snow. Expect to spend extended time in your vehicle getting to and from snow play areas.

Other safety tips that ADOT offers at azdot.gov/KnowSnow include slowing down, leaving extra room behind the vehicle ahead, having a fully charged cell phone, taking along warm clothing, blankets, food and water, and packing an emergency kit. Check your vehicle before heading out in winter weather, making sure – at a minimum – that the tires, heater and windshield wipers are in good shape.

Your winter reminder: Please don't park on highway shoulders

Your winter reminder: Please don't park on highway shoulders

SR24-1

Your winter reminder: Please don't park on highway shoulders

Your winter reminder: Please don't park on highway shoulders

By David Rookhuyzen / ADOT Communications
January 18, 2021

We are going to throw back to 90s cartoons for a second and quote the "Animaniacs": It's that time again.

No, it has nothing to do with a birthday, changing the batteries in your smoke detector or an upcoming dentist appointment. 

Instead, it's time for our annual winter reminder to not park along highway shoulders.

We all know this time of year means folks flock up north to frolic following snowstorms in the high country. That's great and state highways are waiting to take you up to the Rim, Flagstaff or wherever your particular winter wonderland is waiting for you.

Once there, all too often people simply pull onto the shoulder of a state highway or even Interstate 17 rather than into a designated parking area well off the road. The photo to the right is an example from 2017.

That's a big no-no. 

The reasons come down to safety: 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; ADOT snowplows hurl snow and ice far off highways; and it’s far safer for you and other drivers if you re-enter highways from on-ramps and other designated entrances. Then there’s the obvious danger of parking and playing near fast-moving traffic that's using what could be a still-icy road.

If you need another deterrent, remember that Arizona Department of Public Safety troopers and other law enforcement officers can cite motorists for parking on a highway in violation of state laws. Violators can face expensive fines.

We fully support anyone who wants to go sledding, build a snowman or make a snow angel. But we also want everyone to be able to make it home safely at the end of the day.

That's why we will slip in here that you should make sure you are fully prepared for extended time in cold, snow and ice, as well as be ready for potentially harsh driving conditions, by visiting azdot.gov/KnowSnow. Those heading to popular snow-play sites should prepare for heavy traffic and may want to consider making an earlier start home, as traffic back tends to build as the day goes on.

And, hopefully, there will be no need for this reminder next year. 

ADOT has a game plan for tackling snow

ADOT has a game plan for tackling snow

SR24-1

ADOT has a game plan for tackling snow

ADOT has a game plan for tackling snow

By Ryan Harding / ADOT Communications
December 15, 2020

Much like a football team makes a plan to win games, ADOT makes a plan to “win the winter season” by helping to keep highways clear of snow and ice. With thousands of miles of state highway located in areas where it snows, ADOT must carefully plan and deploy its resources to high-priority needs first.

Those high-priority needs are interstates like I-40 and I-17 that carry hundreds of thousands of vehicles and trucks everyday. Many of ADOT’s 200 snowplows will be deployed along an interstate like I-40 right before a winter storm so they are ready to go when the first snowflakes begin to fall.

State routes with lower traffic volumes are considered secondary routes because not as many vehicles use these roads. Once the interstates are cleared, ADOT snowplow operators will take care of these local state highways.

ADOT will also “block” certain state highways (that means close) as part of its game plan. SR 67 leading to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, state routes 261, 273 and 473 in the White Mountains and SR 366 heading up Mount Graham in southern Arizona all close for the winter.

These highways receive a lot of snow during the winter, so given that plus the fact that these roads end at destinations like the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, it makes sense to close these roads so ADOT can keep its snowplows focused on interstates and other state highways. Crews return to these highways in the spring to plow them and get them ready for reopening.

It’s important for you to have a winter game plan as well. That plan includes leaving prepared before heading to the snow.

Check az511.gov before you leave to check road conditions. Download the ADOT Alerts and AZ 511 apps. Wait out the storm if possible to give ADOT’s snowplows time to clear the highways of snow and ice. Also, take a fully charged cell phone, warm clothing and an emergency kit that includes blankets, food and water, medication and sand or kitty litter.

Check your vehicle before heading out in winter weather, making sure – at a minimum – that the tires, heater and windshield wipers are in good shape.

You can formulate your game plan at azdot.gov/KnowSnow.