Flagstaff, Arizona – Snow-covered lanes and wind gusts up to 50 mph could make travel treacherous along I-40 and I-17 beginning at 5 p.m. Thursday, with the most dangerous conditions expected between midnight and 5 a.m. Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Flagstaff, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect from 5 p.m. Thursday until 5 a.m. Friday for higher elevations around Flagstaff and areas east toward Winslow. Forecasters expect 4 to 9 inches of snow in the warning area, with blowing snow reducing visibility along open stretches of interstate.
A Winter Weather Advisory covers surrounding areas from 5 p.m. Thursday until 8 a.m. Friday, where 1 to 5 inches of snow is likely. A Wind Advisory is also in effect from midnight to 5 p.m. Friday, with southwest winds gusting as high as 50 mph before shifting behind the cold front.
Drivers along I-40, US-180 and I-17 toward Munds Park should prepare for slick roads, drifting snow and sudden drops in visibility, especially overnight when snowfall intensity peaks. ADOT urges travelers to check road conditions, carry winter supplies and keep fuel tanks at least three-quarters full.
Snow levels may fluctuate between 4,000 and 5,000 feet during heavier bursts, allowing slushy accumulations in lower elevations at times. Much colder temperatures Friday morning will keep untreated roads icy.
Snow showers taper later Friday morning, but hazardous travel could linger into the midday commute. Additional advisories may be expanded if snowfall totals increase overnight.
