Heading north? Be prepared.

Winter Weather Advisory for the

President’s Holiday Weekend

Flagstaff , AZ – The National Weather Service Flagstaff AZ has issued a winter storm watch from late tonight through Sunday.  Snow accumulations in some areas of the state may be as much as 18” or more with 30 mph winds tomorrow and gusts of up to 45 mph creating blowing wind, low visibility and deep snow drifts resulting in hazardous driving conditions.  

In the recent past, three day holiday weekends have been extremely busy for the snow play areas located along the Highway 180 corridor. The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office, believes that Northern Arizona will receive an extremely high volume of winter recreation enthusiasts during the 3 day President’s Holiday Weekend.  During the brunt of the storm motorists should not travel unless it is an emergency. Four wheel drive vehicles, snow tires or snow chains may be required to safely reach some of the snow play areas.  In the event of high usage of the Highway 180 corridor traffic congestion and significant delays can be expected. 

Please use common sense and caution when driving in winter conditions and be prepared for an extended stay in the event of highway closures.  Coconino County Sheriff Bill Pribil would like to remind motorists to:

• Know before you go - Current information about where to go to play in the snow is available daily from the Flagstaff Visitor Center at 877-878-9377. A map of Winter Recreation sites in the Flagstaff-Coconino National Forest area is at http://flagstaffarizona.org/documents/WinterRec.map.pdf  
• Be prepared for cold weather and winter driving conditions with a full tank of gas, chains, flashlight and other emergency items. Pack extra dry clothes, snacks, water and a trash bag.
• Be safe and aware. Don’t park along the highway. Look before you slide. Watch out for hazards and other visitors. Bike helmets are recommended for safe sledding.
• Be patient. Highways through the Flagstaff area may be congested.
• Leave no trace other than footprints and snowmen. Take your trash with you.
• Respect private property and other locations where snow play and sledding is not appropriate.