Northern Arizona sees winter storms and road closures; rain, hail reported across the valley

PHOENIX – Two winter storms in northern Arizona over the next five days are expected to drop 19 to 29 inches of snow in the Flagstaff area.

A Friday to Sunday storm is expected to bring moderate snow across the region, while the second storm is expected to bring even more snow from Monday to Tuesday night.

The National Weather Service said the Flagstaff area is expected to see seven to 11 inches of snow in the first storm and another 30 to 18 inches in the second storm. Payson is expected to receive 15 to 21 inches of snow in the second storm.

Since 11 am on January 24, Flagstaff has seen 20 to 23 centimeters of snow. Prescott saw a 7 to 12 cm snowfall.

Storms affecting traffic

Storms are expected to make driving conditions difficult in the upper region. Temperatures in northern Arizona on Wednesday and Thursday are also expected to be extremely low, raising concerns about the possibility of frozen tubes in some areas of the country.

Drivers are being advised to postpone the trip north unless absolutely necessary, and officials say waiting for the storm to end is the safest option, as it allows snowblowers to clear the roads more quickly.

The influx of travelers heading north caused several backups and delays along I-17 and I-40. During the late afternoon hours of January 24, ADOT officials said there was a backup of traffic along I-17, from milepost 340 in Flagstaff to milepost 305, near State Route 179. In addition, there is a backup heavy traffic from Cordes Junction to New Rio.

ADOT officials say winter is responsible for heavy traffic. They are asking people to wait for the storm to pass, if possible.

On the night of January 24, ADOT officials announced that State Route 89A was closed in both directions between Sedona and Flagstaff as a result of the winter storm. There is no estimated time to reopen.

Meanwhile, the National Weather Service in Flagstaff is advising travelers to avoid parking along the highways to play in the snow.

Flagstaff classes canceled for Monday

In a statement released late on the afternoon of January 24, officials from the Flagstaff Unified School District say all schools in the district will be closed in Ja. 25, including remote learning classes.

“A determination for school and district services for Tuesday, January 26, 2021 will be made on Monday evening or Tuesday morning,” said part of the statement

Rain, hail seen in the valley

The Valley saw sparse rain on Sunday morning, although some residents – specifically those in the southeast – have seen stronger storm cells.

The National Meteorological Service reported that hail and hail, or soft hail, has been reported throughout the US 60 near Upper.

More rain is expected for the Phoenix metropolitan area on Monday and Tuesday, with more widespread storms and strong winds.

A winter storm watch is in effect for high altitude areas east of Phoenix on Monday and Tuesday.

Impending snowstorm attracts winter sports fans

The impending snowstorm also means good news for Arizona Snowbowl.

“We are forecasting up to three feet by next Thursday or so, so this is great news for us,” said Li Cui, marketing manager for Arizona Snowbowl.

So far, the ski area has received only 35 inches, but the potential snowfall is expected to double the total season in just a few days.

This great storm that is coming is also bringing many skiers and snowboarders to Flagstaff.

“Our Saturday tickets were sold on Tuesday night, and Sunday tickets were sold on Thursday,” said Li.

Rain / Flood Safety Tips

American Red Cross tips for heavy rain and flood safety:

• Turn around, don’t drown! If you need to drive and find a flooded road, turn around and go the other way.
• If you are caught on a flooded road and the water is rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and go to higher ground.
• Tune in to your local radio, NOAA radio or news channels for the latest updates.
• If your neighborhood is prone to flooding, be prepared to evacuate quickly.
• Follow evacuation orders and don’t try to return until the authorities say it’s safe.
• If the power lines are disconnected, do not step in puddles or standing water.
• If there is a power failure, use a flashlight. Do not use any open flame as an alternative lighting.

Preparing for a heavy storm

American Red Cross tips to prepare for a severe storm:

• Assemble an emergency kit.
• Know your community’s evacuation plan.
• Create a domestic disaster plan and practice it.
• Buy a battery powered or crank powered radio
• Discuss storm safety with members of your home. Be aware that a storm can cause flooding.
• Choose a safe place in your home for family members to gather during a storm. This should be a place where there are no windows, skylights or glass doors, which can be broken by strong winds or hail and cause damage or injury.

The Associated Press (AP) contributed to this report.