A new round of winter weather is sweeping through various parts of Arizona, bringing wet conditions and impacting several regions. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Phoenix predicts that showers will persist in the Phoenix area through Friday morning, with the possibility of isolated showers and storms extending into Friday afternoon and night.

Rainfall Projections for Different Areas

NWS officials provide specific rainfall projections, anticipating amounts ranging from 0.10 to 0.5 inches across southeast CA and southwest AZ. In the Phoenix Metro area, the forecasted rainfall is expected to be between 0.5 and 1.0 inches, while higher terrain areas may experience 1.0 to 1.5 inches of rainfall.

Flagstaff Faces Scattered Showers and School Closures

In Flagstaff, scattered showers began to form across Northern Arizona on Thursday afternoon. NWS Flagstaff’s website warns of the heaviest snowfall occurring in the early morning hours on Friday, creating hazardous travel conditions at high elevations during the morning commute. The most challenging road conditions are expected on Friday morning, impacting both morning and evening commutes at higher elevations.

School Closures Due to Inclement Weather

The winter storm prompted officials from the Flagstaff Unified School District to announce the closure of all schools within the district on Friday. The decision was made based on inclement weather conditions and the current state of road conditions on interstate highways. Similarly, the Sedona-Oak Creek Unified School District declared a no-school day on February 2, although the announcement did not explicitly state if it was weather-related.

Impact on Commutes and Travel Safety Measures

The severe weather conditions have led to hazardous travel situations, prompting the closure of schools and affecting commutes. To enhance public safety during heavy rain and potential flooding, the American Red Cross offers the following tips:

• Turn Around, Don’t Drown: Avoid driving through flooded roadways.
• Swift Evacuation: If caught on a flooded road with rising waters, exit the vehicle quickly and seek higher ground.
• Stay Informed: Monitor local radio, NOAA radio, or news channels for the latest updates.
• Be Ready to Evacuate: Residents in flood-prone areas should be prepared for quick evacuation.
• Follow Official Orders: Adhere to evacuation orders and wait until authorities declare it safe to return.
• Caution Around Power Lines: Avoid standing water if power lines are down.
• Safe Lighting: Use flashlights instead of open flames if power is out.

Resources for Road Conditions

For up-to-date information on road conditions in Arizona, individuals can call 511 anywhere in the state or contact 1-888-411-ROAD (7623).

Navigating Winter Storm Impacts in Arizona

As winter weather continues to impact various regions of Arizona, residents are urged to stay informed, exercise caution during commutes, and adhere to safety guidelines provided by authorities. The closure of schools underscores the severity of the conditions, emphasizing the need for vigilance and preparedness in the face of ongoing weather challenges.