Weather

Vote for your favorite weather photos

Vote for your favorite weather photos

Vote for your favorite weather photos

Vote for your favorite weather photos

October 23, 2017

Besides traffic, ADOT cameras across the state capture amazing weather photos. From thunderstorms to snowstorms to dust storms, Arizona has seen it all. Tell us which cameras shots were the best! Swipe right if you like a photo and left if you don't.

You can find our cameras on az511.gov. Make sure you have "Cameras" check-marked in the top right corner.

 

With monsoon storms forecast, be prepared for severe weather dangers

With monsoon storms forecast, be prepared for severe weather dangers

I-17 101 traffic interchange

With monsoon storms forecast, be prepared for severe weather dangers

With monsoon storms forecast, be prepared for severe weather dangers

September 8, 2017

PHOENIX – With strong monsoon storms forecast in much of Arizona going into the weekend, be ready to pull aside and wait out extreme weather.

Please heed this advice: Get off the highways when facing a dust storm. In almost no time, blowing dust can drop visibility to zero, especially where small dust channels afford drivers little or no opportunity to avoid this hazard.

Other tips from the Arizona Department of Transportation:

  • If you encounter a dust storm, immediately check traffic around your vehicle (front, back and to the side) and begin slowing down.
  • Don’t wait until poor visibility makes it difficult to pull off the roadway safely; do it as soon as possible. Completely exit the highway if you can.
  • Don’t stop in a travel lane or in the emergency lane. Look for a safe place to pull completely off the paved portion of the roadway.
  • Turn off all vehicle lights, including your emergency flashers. You don’t want other vehicles approaching from behind to use your lights as a guide and crash into your vehicle.
  • Set your emergency brake and take your foot off the brake.
  • Stay in the vehicle with your seat belt buckled and wait for the storm to pass.
  • Drivers of high-profile vehicles should be aware of changing weather conditions and reduce speed.

Monsoon season can produce thunderstorms with sudden, heavy rainfall. Keep these tips in mind:

  • Don’t risk crossing a flooded wash, even if it doesn’t look deep. Even a few inches of running water poses a serious risk.
  • Don’t drive around “Road Closed” signs. You risk your life and face being cited under state law.
  • If traffic lights are out, treat an intersection as a four-way stop.
  • Storm runoff can loosen boulders and rocks on slopes above highways. Stay alert in areas prone to falling rocks.
  • Inspect your windshield wipers and replace them if necessary.
  • Reduce your speed and maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you.
  • Avoid sudden braking, which can cause you to slide on wet pavement. To slow down, take your foot off the gas pedal and brake slowly.

More information on dust storm safety can be found at PullAsideStayAlive.org, and safety tips for driving in rainstorms are available at azdot.gov/monsoons.

Real-time highway conditions are available on ADOT’s Arizona Traveler Information site at az511.gov, by calling 511 and through ADOT’s Twitter feed, @ArizonaDOT.

With extreme heat forecast, prepare yourself and your vehicle

With extreme heat forecast, prepare yourself and your vehicle

I-17 101 traffic interchange

With extreme heat forecast, prepare yourself and your vehicle

With extreme heat forecast, prepare yourself and your vehicle

June 16, 2017

PHOENIX ‒ With extreme heat in the forecast, it’s especially important for drivers to plan before taking to state highways, starting with having a fully charged cellphone as well as extra drinking water for all passengers, including pets.

Even though your vehicle has air conditioning, be ready in case you must spend extended time on the highway due to a breakdown or some other reason for delay. That starts with having sun protection, including sunscreen, an umbrella for shade, a wide-brimmed hat and loose-fitting, light-colored cotton clothing.

Keep your tank at three-quarters full. Running out of gas, especially in a remote location, is dangerous in extreme heat.

Take a cooler to keep extra drinking water cold, and consider adding several frozen bottles of water to use for cooling off or to thaw and drink if needed.

If your vehicle breaks down in extreme heat, call for assistance right away to reduce wait time, and run the AC. If the AC isn’t working, roll down all windows.

Other recommendations if you are stranded along the highway:

  • DRINK WATER. Make sure everyone, including pets, stays hydrated.
  • If temperatures inside the vehicle become too hot, everyone, including pets, should exit carefully and seek out or create a shaded area as far away from the travel lanes as possible.
  • Be careful walking on the road surface, which can be hot enough to burn skin. Keep your shoes on and try to keep your pets’ paws off the pavement.
  • Raise the front hood and turn on hazard lights.

You can help avoid breakdowns and blowouts by making sure your vehicle is in good operating condition. Check your air conditioner and coolant levels, top off any vital engine fluids and make sure your battery is up to par. Check your tire pressure, as the combination of underinflated tires and hot pavement can lead to a blowout.

More ADOT tips for traveling in extreme heat are available at azdot.gov/extreme-heat.

Pooling ideas to reduce the dangers from dust storms

Pooling ideas to reduce the dangers from dust storms

Pooling ideas to reduce the dangers from dust storms

Pooling ideas to reduce the dangers from dust storms

March 18, 2017

Dust Storm

By Tom Herrmann / ADOT Communications

You’ve heard this one before: Everyone talks about the weather, but no one does anything about it.

Perhaps.

Weather professionals, scientists, engineers and others met recently at Central Arizona College to talk about a weather phenomenon that seems to strike in Arizona more than anywhere else: dust storms. It’s the fifth consecutive year the group has come together to talk about how to make Arizona roads safer when winds out in front of storms kick up a wall of dust.

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Dust Detection Program

This year's program included ADOT engineer Reza Karimvand explaining an innovative dust detection project planned for a stretch of I-10 near Picacho. It will identify when blowing dust has reduced visibility and automatically set in motion electronic messages and lower speed limits to reduce the danger for drivers. This system, which could become a model for other states, is expected to advertise for bids this summer, Karimvand said.

Another prime topic: education. One participant suggested putting dust storm information on the test for a driver license. Another suggested an education program for the trucking industry modeled after ADOT’s Pull Aside, Stay Alive campaign, which has been in place since 2011.

Technology can help make roads like Interstate 10 safer, but the best defense against blowing dust may just be an old standby: personal responsibility. Whatever technology brings, it will never be safe to drive into a dust storm. So don't.

Throwback Thursday: Slushy Scottsdale roads

Throwback Thursday: Slushy Scottsdale roads

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.

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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.

Drivers may encounter blowing dust along I-10 southeast of Phoenix

Drivers may encounter blowing dust along I-10 southeast of Phoenix

I-17 101 traffic interchange

Drivers may encounter blowing dust along I-10 southeast of Phoenix

Drivers may encounter blowing dust along I-10 southeast of Phoenix

January 23, 2017

PHOENIX – Drivers should be prepared for blowing dust and reduced visibility along Interstate 10 between Phoenix and Tucson, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.

The National Weather Service says gusty winds were recorded in the Casa Grande area today and the Department of Public Safety reported areas of blowing dust crossing I-10 southeast of Phoenix.

Dust along portions of I-10 is just one of a number of weather-related issues motorists may encounter across the state due to the third in a series of winter storms in recent days.

Drivers should use caution as additional snow, windy conditions and icy spots on highways can still be expected in the state’s high country.

ADOT will continue to monitor information from the National Weather Service as the latest winter storm impacts travel in many areas.

In some locations, including I-10 between Phoenix and Tucson, winds may continue to kick up dust and limit visibility. When that happens, the Arizona Department of Transportation has some straightforward advice: Pull Aside, Stay Alive.

If a dust storm approaches, try to exit the freeway if you can do so safely. If you’re caught in blowing dust, follow these safety tips from PullAsideStayAlive.org:

  • Immediately check traffic around your vehicle (front, back and to the side) and begin slowing down.
  • Don’t wait until poor visibility makes it difficult to safely pull off the roadway.
  • Don’t stop in a travel lane or in the emergency lane.
  • Turn off all vehicle lights, including your emergency flashers. You do not want other vehicles approaching from behind to use your lights as a guide, possibly crashing into your parked vehicle.
  • Set your emergency brake and take your foot off the brake.
  • Stay in the vehicle with your seatbelts buckled and wait for the storm to pass.

As for travel in areas expecting more snow, winter driving tips are available at azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

To stay up to date with the latest highway conditions around the state, visit the ADOT Traveler Information Center at az511.gov, call 511 or follow ADOT on Twitter (@ArizonaDOT).

As powerful storms arrive, do your research before highway trips

As powerful storms arrive, do your research before highway trips

I-17 101 traffic interchange

As powerful storms arrive, do your research before highway trips

As powerful storms arrive, do your research before highway trips

January 19, 2017

PHOENIX – With back-to-back snowstorms bearing down on Arizona, know what you’re driving into before heading to the high country.

Highway conditions can deteriorate quickly during severe weather as snow accumulates and drivers struggle, and closures can happen suddenly and be prolonged. If enough snow falls, the Arizona Department of Transportation may close lesser-used highways while snowplows address busier routes.

Examples of the latter: If conditions warrant, ADOT may close US 180 northwest of Flagstaff, between milepost 224 west of Bader Road and milepost 248, and State Route 89A through Oak Creek Canyon (mileposts 386-397) to focus on Interstates 17 and 40 and other routes. In eastern Arizona, US 191 between Alpine and Hannagan Meadow (mileposts 231-253) isn’t plowed at night and on weekends.

ADOT’s nearly 200 snowplows and 400 certified snowplow drivers are ready to deal with snow and ice, and tips for driving around snow and ice are available at azdot.gov/KnowSnow. But the safest decision during extreme weather is delaying travel until conditions improve and letting ADOT’s plows do their work.

So do your research, including staying up to date on National Weather Service forecasts.

Before deciding whether to drive into areas where snow is expected or falling, motorists should get the latest on highway conditions and any closures from the ADOT Traveler Information Center, available at az511.gov or by calling 511. In addition, traffic cameras at az511.gov provide a view of conditions for those using desktop computers and laptops.

ADOT’s Twitter (@ArizonaDOT) and Facebook (facebook.com/AZDOT) accounts are excellent sources of information and interaction on traffic conditions.

In addition to doing your research, here are some other tips for driving in challenging winter weather:

  • Slow down: Adjust speed to conditions.
  • Create space: Leave extra room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. Avoid sudden braking.
  • Give snowplows room: Slow down and stay at least four vehicle lengths behind a plow. Wait for a plow to pull over before passing. The safest place to be when there’s snow and ice on a road is behind a snowplow.
  • Leave prepared: Bring extra clothing and gloves, make sure the gas tank is half to three-quarters full at all times, keep cellphones charged, and pack extra drinking water, snacks and all necessary medications.
  • Pack an emergency kit: It should include blankets, a flashlight, an ice scraper, a small shovel, a container of sand or cat litter for traction and warning lights or reflectors.
  • Beware of black ice: Melting snow can turn into ice, especially at night. Ice tends to form on bridges first and can be difficult to see.

For more tips, visit azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

New traffic cameras expand your view of highways around the state

New traffic cameras expand your view of highways around the state

New traffic cameras expand your view of highways around the state

New traffic cameras expand your view of highways around the state

January 18, 2017

By Dave Woodfill and Garin Groff / ADOT Communications

Just in time for more winter weather this weekend, our Arizona Traveler Information site has expanded your view of highways and conditions with nine new cameras around the state.

Joining the many traffic and weather cameras available at az511.gov, these views help ADOT and commuters using their desktop computers and laptops get real-time information on road conditions. And let’s face it – it’s just fun to check out those Arizona sunrises and sunsets.

Five cameras in northern Arizona are on Interstate 40 near Ash Fork, near Butler Avenue in Flagstaff and at the Sanders Port of Entry near New Mexico; at State Route 89A and Milton Road in Flagstaff; and along SR 260 near Show Low. Cameras in the central and southern portions of the state are on US 60 south of Wickenburg; on Interstate 10 near Sacaton and Picacho Peak; and along State Route 90 in Whetstone.

Views from some of these cameras are below.

Next time you’re heading out on a trip, trying to beat the traffic or just looking for a great view, visit to az511.gov and see what camera views are available along your route.

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Traffic Camera: US 60 eastbound at milepost 119 south of Wickenburg.

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Traffic Camera: SR 89A and Milton Road in Flagstaff.

Blog-2017-0118-show-low

Traffic Camera: SR 260 milepost 335 in Show Low.

Blog-2017-0118-sanders

Traffic Camera: Sanders Port of Entry, I-40 milepost 340.

 

Prepare for coming winter storms, be ready to wait out snowfall

Prepare for coming winter storms, be ready to wait out snowfall

I-17 101 traffic interchange

Prepare for coming winter storms, be ready to wait out snowfall

Prepare for coming winter storms, be ready to wait out snowfall

January 18, 2017

PHOENIX – With two winter storms forecast to blanket Arizona’s high country with as much as 24 inches of snow between Thursday and Saturday, motorists should be prepared for hazardous driving conditions, delays and possible highway closures – and consider delaying travel during the worst weather.

The National Weather Service forecast calls for the first storm to reach the state late Thursday, with a colder, more powerful storm moving in Friday evening through Saturday morning. Snow levels will drop to about 5,000 feet Thursday and as low as 4,000 feet Saturday morning. The heaviest snowfall is expected over the Mogollon Rim and areas above 7,000 feet in Yavapai County. That includes areas from Flagstaff to Forest Lakes and into the White Mountains.

Gusting winds are expected from both storms, meaning windblown snow on top of the heavy accumulation could create dangerous driving conditions. Slide-offs and crashes in severe weather cause traffic backups and lead to highway closures.

With more than an inch of rain forecast for some desert locations, water could accumulate in low spots or washes.

The Arizona Department of Transportation’s nearly 200 snowplows and 400 certified snowplow drivers are ready to deal with snow and ice, and ADOT’s website offers tips for driving in the rainin wind that reduces visibility and around snow and ice.

Here are some of the driving tips:

  • Consider waiting out the storm if conditions warrant: Highways can close suddenly in severe weather, and stranded vehicles make it more difficult for snowplows to do their work. Delaying travel may be the safest decision.
  • Slow down: Adjust speed to conditions.
  • Create space: Leave extra room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. Avoid sudden braking.
  • Give snowplows room: Slow down and stay at least four vehicle lengths behind a plow. Wait for a plow to pull over before passing. The safest place to be when there’s snow and ice on a road is behind a snowplow.
  • Leave prepared: Bring extra clothing and gloves, make sure the gas tank is half to three-quarters full at all times, keep cellphones charged, and pack extra drinking water, snacks and all necessary medications.
  • Pack an emergency kit: It should include blankets, a flashlight, an ice scraper, a small shovel, a container of sand or cat litter for traction and warning lights or reflectors.
  • Beware of black ice: Melting snow can turn into ice, especially at night. Ice tends to form on bridges first and can be difficult to see.

Many of these tips apply to driving on wet roads as well, including waiting out threatening weather. Some other tips:

  • Inspect windshield wipers and replace them if necessary.
  • Turn on headlights while driving.
  • Avoid areas where water is pooling in travel lanes.

Updates on freeway conditions and restrictions are available on ADOT’s Traveler Information site at az511.gov or by calling 511. ADOT also provides state highway information via its Twitter feed (@ArizonaDOT).

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

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

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.