winter weather

ADOT prepares for winter season with snowplow simulators

ADOT prepares for winter season with snowplow simulators

ADOT prepares for winter season with snowplow simulators

November 29, 2023

Immersive simulation helps operators train for ice, snow and other winter driving conditions

Each winter Arizonans count on snowplow operators to clear highways when snowstorms roll through Arizona’s high country. Operators of the Arizona Department of Transportation’s 200 snowplows have been training since mid-September on snowplow simulators to prepare for the upcoming season.

ADOT’s five snowplow simulators, located in Flagstaff, Kingman, Holbrook, Phoenix and Tucson, are programmed with scenarios that are meant to mimic what operators may encounter on Arizona roads. A given training session can have a driver working in daytime or night in locations that include highways around the San Francisco Peaks near Flagstaff or the Grand Canyon National Park Airport, which ADOT operates. It’s a convenient and effective way for the drivers to learn and boost safety on the state’s highway system during the winter.

“These simulators help us to train our employees at a fraction of the cost that it would be if they were to take a plow out, spend funds on fuel and risk damaging equipment,” said Mario Ortega, ADOT training delivery manager. “With the simulator they can hit a sign, hit a vehicle, and we can start over. In the real world, there are no do-overs.”

Instructors can create different simulations that give ADOT snowplow operators the opportunity to drive in various scenarios, including daytime and nighttime conditions, rainy or low visibility circumstances and even the iciness and material of the roads. The simulator will react, allowing an operator to feel what it’s like to drive over railroad tracks or encounter an icy highway.

All ADOT snowplow operators are required to complete a refresher class on the simulator every year in addition to holding a commercial driver license.

“This is a tool for our operators, a tool for the state, for ADOT, to make the roads safer for the traveling public and our operators,” Ortega said.

In the real world, drivers of passenger cars can also do their part to keep everyone safer:

Always stay at least four car-lengths behind a snowplow
Never attempt to pass a snowplow, to prevent crashing into the massive vehicle.
More information about driving near snowplows can be found at azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

ADOT has over 400 trained snowplow operators who work around the state. During the busy winter season last year, ADOT spent nearly $13.8 million on winter operations. Operators covered 1.2 million miles, nearly twice as many as they drove during the 2021-22 winter season and logged more than 66,000 hours – more than double the previous season’s total.

ADOT reminds travelers to prepare for winter conditions. Visit ADOT’s 511 Travel Information site or download the AZ511 app (free in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store) to check highway information before leaving and real-time conditions via the statewide network of highway cameras. Ensure that your vehicle is in good working order with tires equipped to handle snow.

Get more information and tips for driving in winter weather at azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

ADOT crews moving quickly to address pavement damage from storms

ADOT crews moving quickly to address pavement damage from storms

ADOT crews moving quickly to address pavement damage from storms

March 23, 2023

Wet winter and early spring have created ideal conditions for potholes

The abundance of rain and snow this winter and early spring, which in many ways is welcome news following years of drought, has created ideal conditions for worn pavement and potholes.

The Arizona Department of Transportation maintains more than 6,800 miles of state highways. This wet and icy winter season, including this week’s storms, created conditions that keep highway crews very busy keeping up with potholes, particularly in areas with snow.

While this work continues, you can help by slowing down on highways affected by storm-related potholes, something that’s already a good idea given wet and icy conditions many highways are seeing. Reducing speed and staying alert can help you see and avoid some potholes. You can report pavement issues to azdot.gov > Contact ADOT.

Pavement damage including potholes can pop up quickly when moisture seeps into and below asphalt. Add the pounding that highways take from traffic, and parts of the pavement can break away. This challenge is especially acute in Arizona’s higher elevations, where pavement is subjected to more freeze-thaw cycles than most of the rest of the country.

ADOT crews regularly examine state highways for potholes and address them as quickly as possible, making short-term patches followed by longer-term repairs. They also respond when motorists report potholes and other pavement damage, focusing on the most serious problems first.

When storms create potholes, highway workers make initial temporary repairs as soon as possible with various patching materials that are placed in the damaged area and tamped down.

An ADOT crew repairs I-17 pavement damaged by winter weather.

More permanent repairs come after the pavement has had time to dry out. That work involves the use of a milling machine to remove a section of pavement around the pothole. A sticky oil is sprayed into the milled area being fixed before the patch is placed on top. Crews finish the repair by using a heavy compaction roller to smooth out the pavement.

Another ADOT acronym: RWIS

Another ADOT acronym: RWIS

Another ADOT acronym: RWIS

By John LaBarbera / ADOT Communications

January 12, 2022

We’ve all heard the classic adage: “You can’t be in two places at once.” While that’s certainly true on a metaphysical level, ADOT can subvert the old axiom through our virtual RWIS system.

RWIS, shorthand for Road Weather Information System, is an added tool ADOT crews use to gather real-time information about and make decisions concerning adverse weather events. Cameras located at RWIS sites throughout the state update multiple times every hour and provide a quick perspective of current weather conditions.

Among the many features of ADOT’s RWIS system are sensors that can read air temperature, pavement temperature, wind speed, wind direction and precipitation. The cameras attached to the RWIS sites can help detect visibility issues due to fog or smoke.

ADOT uses the information gathered from RWIS sites for real-time conditions reporting, forecasting, pavement temperatures and wind conditions. Knowing what the weather is like at a specific location helps crews know the proper treatment options, especially when it relates to snow and ice.

Dispatchers at ADOT’s Traffic Operations Center use the information obtained from RWIS to update real-time messages on our overhead message boards. In turn, the motoring public uses this to make informed decisions about their own travel.

Bottom line, the functionality of RWIS helps ADOT improve safety, organize operations and reduce cost.

The cameras connected to RWIS stations are similar to, yet separate from, ADOT’s AZ511 traffic camera system. RWIS cameras are used primarily for weather conditions rather than strictly traffic conditions.

There are 19 RWIS stations located strategically along Arizona highways. Most of them are placed on Interstate 40, where adverse conditions like snow are very common in the winter time. Arizona is one of many states in the Union that utilize the RWIS system. In fact, Iowa has 62 different RWIS sites while Minnesota (famous not just for its many lakes, but also lots and lots of snow) boasts an impressive 125.

Kevin Duby, ADOT’s Statewide Road Weather Manager and RWIS Coordinator, is particularly excited about the recent addition of grip sensor technology at RWIS sites: “This can help with even an already robust winter operation,” he says. “Grip sensor technology basically measures friction of the pavement. The lower the friction value, the less traction that we have on the roadway.”

Duby is confident that ADOT’s RWIS system will continue to provide benefits.

“The future looks bright and as technology changes and gets better, so do the operations," he said.

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Resuming travel this winter? Make sure you ‘Know Snow’

Resuming travel this winter? Make sure you ‘Know Snow’

Resuming travel this winter? Make sure you ‘Know Snow’

November 16, 2021

PHOENIX – Cooler temperatures are around the corner and that means snow in Arizona’s high country. To help travelers this winter, the Arizona Department of Transportation has partnered with the National Weather Service to create graphics that use their color code for storm severity to better inform drivers of what to expect from winter storms.

Orange is a moderate-impact snowstorm. With this type of storm, drivers should slow down when roads are slick with snow and ice and prepare to spend longer on the road. Leave extra room behind the vehicle ahead. Red is a high-impact snowstorm. In this scenario, drivers should avoid travel if possible. If delay is not possible, strongly consider using 4x4 or snow chains and prepare to spend extended amounts of time in the vehicle. Purple is an extreme-impact storm with 2 to 3 inches of snowfall per hour. Drivers should avoid travel altogether during this type of storm due to dangerous travel conditions.

In each case, drivers should pack an emergency kit that includes blankets, warm clothing, a fully charged cell phone, food and water, medication and sand or kitty litter.

ADOT will use these graphics on its social media accounts to help drivers know what intensity of snowstorm to expect so drivers can make informed decisions about travel. ADOT’s Twitter account (@ArizonaDOT) and Facebook page (facebook.com/AZDOT) provide real-time information and interaction.

Drivers can also check road conditions by calling 511 or visiting az511.gov. 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.

ADOT is also ready to help keep highways clear of snow and ice this winter with its fleet of 200 snowplows. Many of these plows include auxiliary cab heaters to keep drivers warm while not idling and wasting fuel; heated windshields to prevent wipers from freezing and getting stuck; backup cameras and a camera and laser guidance system to help guide operators; state-of-the-art lighting packages, and front flex plows that can bend in different configurations to remove snow.

If you come across a snowplow working to clear the road, always help out the plow driver by staying back until the driver pulls over to let traffic pass. Also, 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.

Check out more safety tips before resuming your travels this winter season by visiting azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

Resuming travel this winter? Make sure you ‘Know Snow’

Resuming travel this winter? Make sure you ‘Know Snow’

Resuming travel this winter? Make sure you ‘Know Snow’

November 16, 2021

Cooler temperatures are around the corner and that means snow in Arizona’s high country. To help travelers this winter, the Arizona Department of Transportation has partnered with the National Weather Service to create graphics that use their color code for storm severity to better inform drivers of what to expect from winter storms.

In each case, drivers should pack an emergency kit that includes blankets, warm clothing, a fully charged cell phone, food and water, medication and sand or kitty litter.

ADOT will use these graphics on its social media accounts to help drivers know what intensity of snowstorm to expect so drivers can make informed decisions about travel. ADOT’s Twitter account @ArizonaDOT and Facebook page facebook.com/AZDOT provide real-time information and interaction.

Check out more safety tips before resuming your travels this winter season by visiting azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

Reminder: Leave prepared before heading north to play in snow

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

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.

ADOT reminds drivers to ‘Know Snow’ before heading north

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.

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.

ADOT to close state route SR 67 for the winter Tuesday

ADOT to close state route SR 67 for the winter Tuesday

ADOT to close state route SR 67 for the winter Tuesday

November 30, 2020

ADOT to close state route SR 67 for the winter Tuesday
Annual closure of highway to Grand Canyon North Rim

PHOENIX – With the winter months rapidly approaching, the Arizona Department of Transportation will close State Route 67 between Jacob Lake (US 89A) and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park on Tuesday, Dec. 1.

ADOT closes a number of highways every year as part of the agency’s winter shutdown schedule due to significant amounts of snowfall these regions typically receive.

In addition to the SR 67 closure, highways such as state routes 261 and 273 in the White Mountains will close by Dec. 31, though they could close sooner depending on the weather.

ADOT reminds motorists heading into snow country to drive with caution and follow this advice:

Don’t let GPS and navigation apps replace common sense. When a highway is closed, a suggested alternate route involving an unpaved, unplowed road can lead you into danger.

Pack an emergency kit, a fully charged mobile device, extra clothing, blankets, water and snacks.

Slow down. Drive defensively. Be patient and allow additional time for your trip. Never pass a snowplow.

Leave sufficient space between your vehicle and those ahead of you. Give yourself plenty of room and time to stop or to avoid hazards.

Make sure your vehicle has plenty of fuel.

Check weather and road conditions before you travel. Let someone know your route.

Bring a small bag of sand (or cat litter) for wheel traction.

Download the ADOT Alerts and AZ 511 apps to keep up on the latest road conditions and restrictions.azdot.gov/KnowSnow

Additional information on winter driving is available at azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

Technology, training help ADOT keep roads safe during winter

Technology, training help ADOT keep roads safe during winter

Technology, training help ADOT keep roads safe during winter

November 17, 2020

Winter driving tips

PHOENIX — When snow begins to fall, trained Arizona Department of Transportation snowplow operators will work around the clock to keep the roads safe. Ever-evolving technology incorporated into the snowplows help give the operators a leg up during their 12-hour shifts.

This year, 25 of ADOT’s snowplows have been equipped with new cameras that can stream a live feed back to district offices. These new cameras are another technological innovation to help ADOT be more aware of road conditions along different stretches of highway. They will help decision makers like district engineers and maintenance superintendents be able to see what the plow drivers are seeing.

ADOT districts will be able to see what conditions are like in neighboring districts and make plans to get a jump on snowplow deployment.

Many of ADOT’s nearly 200 snowplows also include auxiliary cab heaters to keep drivers warm while not idling and wasting fuel; heated windshields to prevent wipers from freezing and getting stuck; backup cameras and a camera and laser guidance system to help guide operators; state-of-the-art lighting packages, and front flex plows that can bend in different configurations to remove snow.

ADOT’s 400 snowplow drivers undergo extensive training so they can keep state highways safe. Now that we’re in the season for winter storms to potentially hit, it’s time for you to get to Know Snow by reviewing ADOT’s safety tips at azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

For starters, slow down when roads are slick with snow and ice, leaving extra room behind the vehicle ahead. 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.

Before traveling, research weather conditions to determine whether it would be smarter to sit out a storm so ADOT’s snowplows can clear highways. 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.

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

Before traveling, start your winter season with a visit to azdot.gov/KnowSnow so you can Know Snow in Arizona.

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