Flagstaff, Arizona – Snow and 60 mph wind gusts will slam parts of the Navajo Nation by 5 a.m. Wednesday, creating slick highways and dangerous crosswinds through 7 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Flagstaff, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. MST Wednesday for the Chuska Mountains and Defiance Plateau, including the Black Mesa area. Snow totals up to 4 inches are expected, with 4 to 6 inches possible around Buffalo Pass. Wind gusts could reach 60 mph, strong enough to blow snow across roadways and damage tree limbs or power lines.
Buffalo Pass faces the heaviest accumulation, while Shonto could see 2 to 4 inches. Window Rock is forecast for 1 to 2 inches, and Ganado may receive a trace to 1 inch. Even lighter totals can quickly create snow-covered pavement, especially on bridges and overpasses.
Blowing snow may reduce visibility along U.S. 160 and surrounding tribal and state routes. Drivers should slow down, use headlights and check conditions at az511.gov or by calling 511 before traveling. High-profile vehicles should use extra caution in strong crosswinds.
Snow and wind are expected to taper after sunset, but icy patches may linger into the night. Additional advisories could follow if winds remain strong.
