Local forecasters predict that significant snowfall will return to the Flagstaff area Friday and Saturday, and Coconino County Public Works crews are again prepared to keep major roads clear and passable.
On Thursday, the National Weather Service in Flagstaff issued a Winter Storm Warning for the western half of Coconino County from noon Friday to midnight Saturday. Forecasters are calling for between 8 and 14 inches of snow to fall above 7,000 feet and 4 to 10 inches above 6,000 feet.
Snowfall is expected to be heavy at times, which could cause reduced visibility and snow on the roadways. County Public Works crews will be deployed to keep county roadways open and passable.
As a reminder, County Ordinance 86-6 prohibits motorists from parking on county roadways between Nov. 1 and April 1 on a 24-hour basis. Residents are asked to park their vehicles five to 10 feet from the roadway to allow ample room for snowplows to pass.
Motorists are reminded to travel safely and that accumulated snowfall can create hazardous conditions, including low visibility. For questions about snow removal operations and related road conditions, please contact the following:
- · Coconino County: For county maintained roads, please call Public Works at 928-679-8300 during normal business hours (7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.).
- · City of Flagstaff: Please call either 928-213-2175 or 928-774-1605 during normal business hours.
- · Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT): For highway road conditions, please call 5-1-1 or visit ADOT’s online Traffic Operations Center atwww.az511.gov.
- · Emergencies: To report snow-related road emergencies, please call 9-1-1.
Be prepared and always have on hand:
· Three days of non-perishable food and water (one gallon per day per family member)
· First aid kit and extra supply of medication
· Personal hygiene supplies, extra clothing, footwear, gloves, blankets, sleeping bags
· Extra food for pets and livestock
· Flashlight, extra batteries, candles and a battery operated radio
· Alternate heat source (kerosene, wood, etc.)
· Full propane tank (if applicable)
· Extra set of car keys, cash, credit cards
· Snow shovels
· An emergency plan for the entire family
Vehicle preparedness tips:
· Winterize your vehicle (antifreeze, wipers, battery, snow tires)
· Carry an emergency kit consisting of tire chains or cables, blankets, tow strap, jumper cables, flashlight, water, first aid kit, ice scraper, extra clothing, and appropriate tools
· Keep the gas tank at least half full
· When traveling, let someone know your intended route and expected time of arrival
· Extra blanket and food.