COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County is ready for the inaugural snowstorms of 2024, the first of which hit northern Arizona late Wednesday and is forecast to continue through Thursday.
Public Works crews have been working through the night to keep County roads open and passable during the storm and the Facilities Management team is preparing County buildings for cold and icy conditions.
According to the National Weather Service a second, stronger snowstorm with higher snowfall accumulations is forecast for the region starting early Sunday.
This storm has already created hazardous travel conditions due to slick, snow covered roads and periods of reduced visibility. Mountain travel delays are expected, and motorists are advised to plan trips accordingly or delay travel if necessary. Very cold and potentially dangerous temperatures are forecast following this storm.
For up-to-date regional weather information please visit www.weather.gov/fgz/WinterWeather. For updates on highway conditions please visit www.az511.gov.
Coconino County snow removal operations give priority to main arterial roadways then collector and residential streets. Residents also 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. For more snow season information and tips regarding winter parking, snow removal, etc. please visit www.coconino.az.gov/CountySnowInfo.
Coconino County’s annual Winter Parking Ordinance, which remains in effect until 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 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 Emergency Management also advises residents and visitors to be prepared for winter weather 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.
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, advise others of intended routes and expected time of arrival.
- Allow extra time for travel and drive accordingly.
- Extra blanket and food.