FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — Coconino County is ready for the first snowstorm of the 2023-2024 winter season, which is forecast to hit Northern Arizona late today and continue into Saturday. Public Works crews are geared up to keep County roads open and passable during the storm and the Facilities Management Department is preparing County buildings for cold and icy conditions.
The National Weather Service in Bellemont has issued a Winter Weather Advisory beginning Thursday at 5 p.m. through 5 a.m. Saturday. According to the advisory, total snow accumulations between 2 and 8 inches are expected, with snow falling as low as 5000’ and hazardous impacts occurring above 7000’.
This will be a cold and windy storm that will create hazardous travel conditions, especially for high profile vehicles, due to slick, snow covered roads and periods of reduced visibility. Travel delays will be possible, and motorists are advised to plan trips accordingly or delay travel if necessary. For up-to-date regional weather information please visit www.weather.gov/fgz/WinterWeather. For updates on highway conditions please visit www.az511.gov.
County snow removal operations give priority to main arterial roadways followed by collector and residential streets. Residents are asked to keep vehicles, trash bins, and other obstacles five to ten feet from the roadway during this storm to allow ample room for snowplows to operate.
Coconino County’s annual Winter Parking Ordinance went into effect on Nov. 1. The ordinance, which will remain in effect until Tuesday, April 2, 2024, prohibits vehicles, trailers, and storage containers from parking along County-maintained rights-of-way at all times during snow season to facilitate safer snow removal operations and to help mitigate dangerous snow-related traffic congestion and parking issues.
Residents are also asked to inform their visitors and/or short-term rental guests about the County’s Winter Parking Ordinance. For more information, please visit www.coconino.az.gov/WinterParkingOrdinance2022-06.
Coconino County recommends our residents be prepared for winter weather at home and always have on hand:
- Working carbon monoxide detectors (with battery backups) in all sleeping and common areas
- 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
Travel and vehicle preparedness tips:
- Winterize the vehicle (fresh antifreeze, new wipers, check battery, snow tires)
- Carry an emergency kit consisting of tire chains or cables, warm blankets, tow strap, jumper cables, flashlight, water, first aid kit, non-perishable food, ice scraper, extra clothing, and appropriate tools
- Keep the gas tank at least half full.
- When traveling, inform others of the intended route and expected arrival time.
- Allow extra time for travel and drive accordingly.
