Flagstaff, Arizona – Drivers across northern Arizona have just hours to prepare as snow continues to stack up along the Mogollon Rim and Kaibab Plateau, where up to 9 inches is expected before 5 p.m. Tuesday and wind gusts could hit 50 mph, threatening travel on Interstate 40 and Interstate 17.
According to the National Weather Service in Flagstaff, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect through 5 p.m. Tuesday for elevations along the Mogollon Rim and Kaibab Plateau, including Flagstaff, Munds Park, Williams, and Forest Lakes. A Winter Storm Watch then takes over late Tuesday night through Wednesday evening, when an additional 10 inches of snow is possible.
Forest Lakes could see 6 to 8 inches by late Tuesday, while Flagstaff and Munds Park are expected to pick up 4 to 6 inches. Williams and Doney Park may receive 2 to 4 inches. Bridges and overpasses will freeze first, creating slick stretches on I-40 near Flagstaff and along I-17 toward Munds Park.
Blowing snow may reduce visibility below a half mile at times, especially during the Tuesday morning and evening commutes. Strong winds could snap tree limbs and trigger isolated power outages across Coconino County.
Officials urge drivers to delay non-essential travel and check az511.gov or call 511 for real-time road conditions. Additional advisories or warnings could be issued as the next round of heavier snow develops late Tuesday night into Wednesday evening.
