Snow

Have fun in the snow, but don’t park along highways to play

Have fun in the snow, but don’t park along highways to play

I-17 101 traffic interchange

Have fun in the snow, but don’t park along highways to play

Have fun in the snow, but don’t park along highways to play

February 23, 2018

PHOENIX – Heading to Arizona’s high country this weekend to ski, sled and have snowball fights? Make sure you leave prepared to spend extended time in winter conditions, and please don’t park along highways.

Highway shoulders are for emergencies only. Along with the threat of another driver hitting your vehicle on a shoulder and the possibility that an emergency vehicle or snowplow will need to use the shoulder, consider the following if tempted to park along a highway to play in the snow.

  • ADOT plows can throw snow and ice up to 30 feet off roadways.
  • Other drivers may pull over as well to play in the snow, compounding the problem.
  • It’s much safer to re-enter highways from on-ramps and other designated entrances.

ADOT has placed signs between mileposts 220-229 of US 180 northwest of Flagstaff warning drivers not to park on shoulders unless it’s an emergency.

Heavy traffic around popular snow-play areas can lead to delays. For those seeking snow along US 180, it can take 90 minutes or longer to get back to Flagstaff at day’s end. Once in Flagstaff, those heading south on Interstate 17 can save time by following signs to the Interstate 40/Butler Avenue interchange, then driving west to I-17.

Information on snow-play areas around Flagstaff is available at flagstaffarizona.org or 1.844.256.SNOW.

Wherever you may be traveling this weekend in Arizona’s high country, prepare for the possibility of delays caused by crashes or heavy traffic. Pack an emergency kit with items like extra blankets, warm clothes, food and water, healthy snacks, cat litter or sand for traction, and a first-aid kit. Make sure your gas tank is at least three-quarters full and take along a fully charged cellphone.

Prepare your vehicle as well by ensuring that your wipers, window defroster, headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals work.

Visit azdot.gov/KnowSnow for more tips on driving in winter weather.

To stay up-to-date with the latest highway conditions around the state, visit the ADOT Traveler Information Center at az511.gov or call 511. ADOT’s Twitter (@ArizonaDOT) and Facebook page (/AZDOT) are excellent sources of information and interaction. When a freeway closure or other major traffic event occurs, our free app available at ADOTAlerts.com will send critical information directly to app users in affected areas – where possible, in advance of alternate routes.

Two projects now rejuvenating weather-damaged I-40 stretches west of Flagstaff

Two projects now rejuvenating weather-damaged I-40 stretches west of Flagstaff

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Two projects now rejuvenating weather-damaged I-40 stretches west of Flagstaff

Two projects now rejuvenating weather-damaged I-40 stretches west of Flagstaff

July 21, 2017

I-40 Project Map

By Ryan Harding / ADOT Communications

After getting beat up by years of freezes, thaws and heavy weather, Interstate 40 west of Flagstaff is getting a much-needed upgrade in the form of two projects.

First, crews are grinding down several inches of damaged pavement between mileposts 179 and 191 in both directions and replacing it with fresh asphalt. They're about halfway through and hope to have both directions repaved between mileposts 179 and 185 in the next couple of weeks.

Bridge deck repairs at the Bellemont overpass are underway, with similar repairs starting at the Riordan bridge this week. Those heading westbound on I-40 will need to watch for a lane closure at milepost 191 for the next several weeks so crews can make necessary repairs.

Also halfway completed is the guardrail replacement portion of this project. Guardrail on the eastbound side of this stretch of I-40 is complete, and crews have started on the westbound side.

The goal is to have the majority of paving, the bridge repairs and guardrail replacement done before cooler weather strikes the northern region this fall. Crews will then return next spring when the weather warms up to add the final top layer of asphalt to the highway as well as rebuild the on- and off-ramps at the Bellemont interchange.

Starting on Monday, July 24, ADOT is starting more extensive pavement repair project along I-40 west of Williams. Crews will be rebuilding the highway from the ground up, including a new foundation, between mileposts 156 and 161.

We worked to push this much-needed project though the approval stages so it could begin this summer and address the beating this section of I-40 has taken over the years due to weather. This project will provide the best possible fix for that damage.

Drivers heading east on I-40 toward Williams and Flagstaff will cross the median on a temporary road and share lanes with westbound I-40 traffic through the project area, with one lane of travel in each direction. Be sure to slow down and budget for extra travel time.

An ADOT snowblower in action can be a sign of spring

An ADOT snowblower in action can be a sign of spring

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An ADOT snowblower in action can be a sign of spring

An ADOT snowblower in action can be a sign of spring

March 21, 2017

By Steve Elliott / ADOT Communications

The photos above showing a snowblower in action don't exactly scream "spring has sprung," but that's exactly why this work is happening on State Route 67 north of the Grand Canyon.

A Fredonia-based ADOT maintenance crew is clearing snowdrifts – some as deep as 5 feet – from the closed highway a little early this year so it will dry out for crack-sealing before we open SR 67 for the season in mid-May.

When facilities at Grand Canyon National Park's North Rim are closed for the winter, ADOT closes the 40-plus-mile-long SR 67 south from Jacob Lake.

The North Rim averages 9½ feet of snow each winter. The amount of snow that falls in the area is why ADOT stations one of its two snowblowers there. The other is in the White Mountains near Sunrise Ski Park and Resort.

Throwback Thursday: Slushy Scottsdale roads

Throwback Thursday: Slushy Scottsdale roads

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Throwback Thursday: Slushy Scottsdale roads

Throwback Thursday: Slushy Scottsdale roads

February 23, 2017

Snowy Roads

By Caroline Carpenter / ADOT Communications

Four years ago this week, Scottsdale motorists were driving through a winter wonderland on the Loop 101 Pima Freeway. Our “Throwback Thursday” photo above was taken from one of our traffic cameras near Via de Ventura. On that day in 2013, many thought the slippery stuff was snow, but meteorologists explained that it was a form of precipitation called graupel.

ADOT meteorology intern Ray Greely details the difference between snow and graupel:

Graupel often confuses the general public because it shares attributes with snow. Both form initially by the same process, but graupel undergoes an additional step that gives it a more rounded shape.

2017-0223-graupel3
2017-0223-snowflake3

Graupel can form when snowflakes come in contact with droplets of supercooled water (pure water that gets to 32 degrees Fahrenheit or cooler without freezing) before reaching the ground. The result is rounder and less unique than a snowflake.

Graupel is softer than sleet or hail and is sometimes called “soft hail.” It's often associated with cool-season thundershowers. When temperatures near the surface are warmer than freezing, graupel can occur.

It's unlikely Scottsdale will see anything resembling snow this week, but just in case you can visit the National Weather Service’s website to learn about on different types of winter precipitation.

Telling (and showing) you what's happening with these storms

Telling (and showing) you what's happening with these storms

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Telling (and showing) you what's happening with these storms

Telling (and showing) you what's happening with these storms

January 23, 2017

By Steve Elliott / ADOT Communications

ADOT crews have been working around the clock to keep highways open and motorists safe since these back-to-back storms began hitting Arizona's high country last week.

We've highlighted these efforts as well as the latest conditions through our main social media accounts: Twitter (@ArizonaDOT) and Facebook (facebook.com/AZDOT). Here's a quick roundup of videos and images from the past few days ...

Our two TowPlows are clearing Interstate 40 between Flagstaff and Williams. This video of a TowPlow in action has been very popular on Facebook:

On assignment in Flagstaff, ADOT Public Information Officer Ryan Harding shared how our North Central District's snow desk helps gets plows where they are needed.

Videos and photos shared by field personnel have helped us share important safety messages, such as:

1. Don't park along highways to play in the snow.

2. Give our snowplows room to work.

When wicked weather hits, nothing beats having a network of traffic cameras showing conditions around the state. This video, one of many offered in the past few days, showed conditions Saturday beyond I-40 and I-17 near Flagstaff.

Our followers have been part of this effort as well. In addition to asking about traffic conditions, many of you have shared details and images (we make sure these were taken from the passenger seat before retweeting) that have helped us give everyone the information they need. One example:

Finally, many of you have shared praise for the ADOT personnel working tirelessly to keep highways open. We send them comments such as this one, and we thank everyone who's taken time to offer kind words.

When a powerful snowstorm hits, safest choice is waiting it out

When a powerful snowstorm hits, safest choice is waiting it out

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When a powerful snowstorm hits, safest choice is waiting it out

When a powerful snowstorm hits, safest choice is waiting it out

December 27, 2016

By Steve Elliott / ADOT Communications

Arizona highways look inviting when there's a plowed strip of pavement amid a blanket of snow (see the video above). ADOT has a fleet of nearly 200 snowplows and 400 certified snowplow drivers stationed around the state to get them that way.

But as Christmas weekend showed, especially on Interstate 40 from Flagstaff west to Ash Fork and on Interstate 17 south of Flagstaff, a snowstorm can be so intense that travel becomes unsafe quickly. This is why we urge drivers to monitor conditions before they leave and be prepared to delay travel until our plows can do their work. A few inches of snow fell per hour at the height of this storm, causing many vehicles to slide off and resulting in long closures (the photo at upper right is from I-40) because of the time required to get vehicles cleared and lanes open again.

Because snowstorms can result in sudden closures sometimes lasting for hours, we offer tips at azdot.gov/KnowSnow that include packing an emergency kit with blankets, warm clothing, snacks and water, having a charged cellphone and keeping your gas tank half to three-quarters full at all times. But the safest option when significant snow is in the forecast is not being on road unless it's absolutely necessary.

In addition to watching National Weather Service forecasts for the area where you're planning to travel, be sure to check az511.gov or call 511 for the latest road conditions. ADOT's Twitter account (@ArizonaDOT) is a good source of information and interaction.

With another storm forecast for New Year's weekend, we hope recent experience reinforces the value of waiting out a big storm until roads are plowed and ready for traffic. If there's any question about whether it's safe to go, you'd probably do well not to.

Heading to play in the snow over the holidays? Plan for plenty of traffic

Heading to play in the snow over the holidays? Plan for plenty of traffic

I-17 101 traffic interchange

Heading to play in the snow over the holidays? Plan for plenty of traffic

Heading to play in the snow over the holidays? Plan for plenty of traffic

December 22, 2016

PHOENIX ‒ The combination of snow in the forecast and holidays can be a magnet for those looking to ski, sled or toss a few snowballs.

If you’re heading to play in the snow over Christmas or New Year’s weekends, leave prepared for the strong possibility that you’ll see heavy traffic and delays, especially on the trip home, in popular areas such as US 180 northwest of Flagstaff.

At day’s end, when people start heading home on US 180, it can take 90 minutes or longer to get back to Flagstaff.

Leave prepared to spend more time than you may expect in winter weather. The Arizona Department of Transportation’s tips for winter driving in Arizona’s high country, available at azdot.gov/KnowSnow, include dressing for the cold and packing coats, blankets, gloves and scarves. Make sure you have a fully charged cellphone and plenty of water and snacks, and keep your tank half to three-quarters full at all times.

Travelers should resist the temptation to stop on highway shoulders to play in the snow, in part because plows throw snow and ice far from the roadway. In addition, other drivers may be distracted by your vehicle and first responders may need to use the shoulder. Exit highways and park in designated areas.

Those heading to snow-play sites along US 180 may want to consider making an earlier start home, as on busy days traffic builds toward Flagstaff throughout the afternoon. When they reach Flagstaff, drivers taking Interstate 17 south can save time by following a marked alternate route to Interstate 40 at Butler Avenue, via Switzer Canyon Road and Route 66, and then heading west to I-17. A map of this route is available at FlagstaffArizona.org.

Information on designated snow-play areas around Flagstaff is available at FlagstaffArizona.org or by calling 1.844.256.SNOW.

For the latest highway conditions around the state, visit the ADOT Traveler Information Center at az511.gov or call 511. ADOT’s accounts on Twitter (@ArizonaDOT) and Facebook (facebook.com/AZDOT) are excellent sources of information and interaction.

Have fun in the snow, but don’t park along highways to play

Have fun in the snow, but don’t park along highways to play

I-17 101 traffic interchange

Have fun in the snow, but don’t park along highways to play

Have fun in the snow, but don’t park along highways to play

December 20, 2016

PHOENIX – Snow in Arizona’s high country is a magnet for desert dwellers looking to ski, sled, make snowmen and have snowball fights.

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.

“It’s dangerous for the driver who stops on the highway and for other drivers who might be distracted by your vehicle. It’s also dangerous for first responders who may need access to the shoulder to help someone,” said Audra Merrick, district engineer for the Arizona Department of Transportation’s North Central District. “As tempting as it can be, never stop along the highway to play in snow.”

With snow in the forecast this weekend for the Flagstaff area, ADOT reminds those heading to sled and throw snowballs that highway shoulders are for emergencies 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 those from lower elevations often flock 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 around Flagstaff are available at flagstaffarizona.org or by calling 1.844.256.SNOW.

Those heading to enjoy winter in Arizona’s high country should learn how to prepare for extended time in cold, snow and ice, as well as how to be ready for potentially harsh driving conditions, by visiting azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

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. Snow tires, chains or studded tires may be required depending on the conditions.

Wherever they are traveling in Arizona, drivers need to be prepared for possible delays caused by crashes or heavy traffic. Another cause of congestion during the winter is the popularity of snow-play areas. Those playing in the snow along US 180, for example, may need 90 minutes or more to get back to Flagstaff at day’s end, especially after it snows and over holiday weekends.

“It’s very important that drivers know what they’re heading into when they come up to play in the snow,” Merrick said. “Our crews are committed to keeping the highways open and safe, but weather, road conditions and traffic can change quickly, so leave prepared. To stay up-to-date with the latest highway conditions around the state, visit the ADOT Traveler Information Center at az511.gov or call 511. ADOT’s Twitter (@ArizonaDOT) and Facebook page (/AZDOT) are excellent sources of information and interaction.

Driving Safety Home: Your decisions are key with winter at hand

Driving Safety Home: Your decisions are key with winter at hand

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Driving Safety Home: Your decisions are key with winter at hand

Driving Safety Home: Your decisions are key with winter at hand

December 8, 2016

Winter Roads

By Dallas Hammit / ADOT Deputy Director for Transportation

ADOT crews are ready for what’s ahead this winter. In fact, they prepare year round for the snow and ice. The agency has 400 commercially licensed snowplow drivers and nearly 200 snowplows in its fleet.

While the work those snowplow drivers do is vital for keeping our roads drivable and safe all season, the decisions everyone else makes on the road are equally important.

Please take a moment to review the safety tips below and be sure to share with family and friends.

  • Slow Down and Leave Extra Room: Adjust your speed to conditions. Driving slower and leaving space between your vehicle and others when snow and ice are present can improve your ability to brake and prevent skids.
  • Leave Prepared: Dress for cold weather, bring extra clothes and gloves, be sure your cellphone is charged, and pack food, water and necessary medications. Make sure your vehicle is in good working condition, starting with the battery, heater/defroster, wiper blades, wiper fluid and brakes.
  • Pack an Emergency Kit: For starters, take blankets, a flashlight, an ice scraper, a small shovel, a container of sand for traction and hazard lights or reflectors in case your vehicle becomes disabled.Beware of Black Ice: Black ice tends to form at night when melting snow freezes and is especially common on bridges.
  • Stay Up to Date: Visit ADOT’s Travel Information site at az511.gov or call 511 to get the latest highway conditions, and pay attention to messages on overhead boards. ADOT’s Twitter feed (@ArizonaDOT) is an excellent source of information and answers about highway conditions.

Please find more winter driving information, including videos, infographics and blog posts at azdot.gov/KnowSnow.


Editor's Note: More safety messages from Dallas Hammit, ADOT's state engineer, are available at Driving Safety Home on azdot.gov.