Winter Storm Warning Issued for Kaibab Plateau and Mogollon Rim; Heavy Snow and High Winds Expected

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Flagstaff has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the Kaibab Plateau and the Mogollon Rim. This alert follows a Winter Weather Advisory currently in effect for the region. The warning indicates that heavy snow and blowing snow are expected to create hazardous conditions across northern Arizona.

Affected Areas

The alert covers the Kaibab Plateau, Western Mogollon Rim, and Eastern Mogollon Rim. Specific forecast snowfall amounts for Wednesday include:

• 6 to 8 inches: Forest Lakes, Doney Park, Flagstaff, Munds Park, and Jacob Lake.
• 4 to 6 inches: Williams and Pine-Strawberry.
• 1 to 2 inches: Heber-Overgaard.
• Trace to 1 inch: Fredonia.

What You Should Do

Residents and travelers should consider delaying all travel. If travel is absolutely necessary, motorists must use extreme caution. If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. For the latest road conditions and closures, visit az511.gov or call 511. Slow down and use caution while traveling as roads, bridges, and overpasses will likely become slick and hazardous.

Expected Conditions

For the Winter Storm Warning period, heavy snow is expected with total accumulations between 4 and 8 inches. Winds are forecast to gust as high as 55 mph, which will cause blowing snow and significantly reduced visibility. These conditions will create dangerous driving environments, particularly during the Wednesday morning commute. Additionally, strong winds could cause damage to trees and power lines.

Prior to the warning, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect with scattered snow showers producing up to one inch of additional accumulation and wind gusts up to 40 mph.

Timeline

• Winter Weather Advisory: Remains in effect until 5:00 PM MST Tuesday, February 17.
• Winter Storm Warning: Effective from 5:00 AM MST to 8:00 PM MST Wednesday, February 18.

The hazardous conditions are expected to impact the Tuesday evening, Wednesday morning, and Wednesday afternoon commutes.