Phoenix, Arizona - Following heavy rain and snow across Arizona, state agencies are making additional resources available to support ongoing response and recovery efforts. The Arizona Department of Military and Emergency Affairs (DEMA), Department of Transportation (ADOT) and Department of Public Safety (DPS) continue to coordinate efforts in affected areas.
“Our agencies are taking every step necessary to protect public safety and assist local efforts,” said Governor Doug Ducey. “Arizona owes a big thank you to our first responders, snow plow operators and cleanup crews who are working around the clock to clear roadways and keep motorists safe. We will continue working closely with local officials to deploy resources where they are needed.”
Emergency officials are reminding drivers to slow down, pay attention, and do not stop on road shoulders to play in the snow. Stopping on road shoulders is extremely dangerous.
Latest Information
- ADOT has 200 snow plows deployed. 400 snow plow operators are working around the clock in 12-hour shifts to keep plows on the roads 24 hours a day.
- All interstate highways are currently open and plowed. Motorists should continue to slow down and exercise caution while driving in winter weather conditions.
- ADOT is working diligently to clear state routes and local roads currently snowed-in. For the latest road conditions, visit http://az511.gov, call 511 or check @ArizonaDOT on Twitter.
- DPS has deployed additional troopers to affected areas to assist stranded motorists. In the last 24 hours, troopers responded to hundreds of slide offs and stuck vehicles.
- DEMA has activated five emergency centers to help assist local authorities with emergency response in the hardest hit areas.
- Many Arizona State Parks are closed or opening late due to weather conditions. Check AZStateParks.com or call ahead before you go.
- ADOT crews will begin repairing roads and filling potholes caused by freezing conditions as soon as Monday.
Driving Tips
- If delaying travel isn’t possible, leave prepared to spend extended time in winter conditions.
- Slow down and drive for the conditions you’re in. Leave extra room between you and the vehicle in front of you.
- Pack an emergency kit that includes a first-aid kit, warm clothes, blankets, food and water, a fully charged cell phone, medication if needed and sand or kitty litter for tire traction.
- Make sure your vehicle is in good condition with working windshield wipers, heater and tires properly inflated.
- Make sure you have at least half to three-quarters tank full of gas at all times.
- It’s unsafe to park on the side of a highway to play in the snow. Highway shoulders are for emergencies.
- Never pass a snow plow! Slow down and be patient. If approaching an oncoming snow plow, slow down and give the plow extra room.
- Stay at least four car lengths behind snow plows and equipment. Plowed snow can create a cloud that reduces visibility, and spreaders on trucks throw salt or sand that can damage your vehicle. Watch for plows operating in multiple travel lanes or in tandem.