Arizona weather forecast: Heavy snow, strong winds possible in High Country

PHOENIX - A second storm is hot on the heels of yesterday's rain and snow event.

Wednesday:

Our next system is moving into the state this morning. The storm will bring another round of rain and snow, as well as very powerful wind gusts. Gusts of 50-60 mph are expected over much of northern Arizona into the afternoon. As a result, any snow that passes through may turn into blowing snow – dropping visibility and creating hazardous driving conditions. In addition, this storm is arriving to much colder conditions across the state, which will allow for quicker snow accumulation as precipitation falls.

The forecast calls for snow over a larger area of the High Country, with the snow elevation line falling to around 5,000-6,000 feet on Wednesday. Snow totals may reach around 5-9" in Flagstaff, and 9-14" at Arizona Snowbowl. A dusting of snow is possible down to Sedona and Payson (with quick melting), and 1" is possible for Prescott (potentially 1-3" for the higher elevations of the Prescott Valley). The snow totals are lower the farther we track to the east, such as 1-2" at Pinetop and 2-5" for Sunrise Ski.

A few passing showers, especially along the north and east parts of the Valley, are also forecast Wednesday in the Phoenix metro. Chances increase between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. for showers, before the Valley quickly dries out again.

The next system will keep us even cooler, as the high may not climb above freezing in Flagstaff on Wednesday. Phoenix is forecast to cap at 65 on Wednesday and Thursday, too.

Thursday and Frida:

Thursday will remain generally dry before another storm system approaches from the northwest on Thursday night into Friday. Yet again, accumulating snow will be likely in the High Country with rain chances for the Valley. It will be windy again, too. By Friday morning, dicey driving conditions are possible at the higher elevations with slippery or snowy roads.

This Weekend:

We will quickly dry out as we warm into the 70s Saturday and near 80 Sunday in Phoenix.

You can always check the latest weather conditions by visiting the FOX 10 Phoenix weather page, or download the Free FOX 10 Weather app, which is available on Apple iOS and Android.

Scroll down this page for satellite and radar, day planner, records, current temperatures, 10-day forecast, forecast highs, and recent rainfall totals, plus live video feeds.

Road Conditions

• Call 511 anywhere in Arizona or 1-888-411-ROAD (7623)
• az511.com

Leave prepared before heading north

After recent snowfall in the high country, the Arizona Department of Transportation is reminding drivers who are heading north to never park along highways to play in the snow. 

Use the highway shoulders for emergencies only. Parking on them to play in the snow is hazardous in the following ways:

• Other drivers may be distracted by your vehicle.
• Other drivers may pull over as well to play in the snow, compounding the problem.
• Your vehicle may interfere with first responders who need to use the shoulder.
• Plows can throw snow and ice far off highways.
• It’s much safer to re-enter highways from on-ramps and other designated entrances

"Also, it’s not uncommon for lots of desert dwellers to take the opportunity to head north to play in the snow. So, remember to pack your patience and expect to spend extended time in your vehicle getting to and from snow play areas."

ADOT's suggestions for items to take along:

• Warm clothing and blankets
• A fully charged mobile phone and charger
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Drinking water
• Healthy snacks
• First-aid kit and necessary medications
• Ice scraper
• Small bag of sand or kitty litter for wheel traction
• Small folding shovel for snow removal
• Travel tool kit and battery cables
• Safety flares
• Plastic bags or containers for sanitation
• Road map(s)

ADOT says you and your vehicle must be prepared for driving in wintry conditions, including snow, ice and freezing temperatures.

• Get plenty of rest
• Plan your route in advance and notify someone about your route, destination and arrival time
• Take frequent breaks from driving
• Make sure your fuel tank is at least half to three-quarters full at all times
• Use snow tires, chains or studded tires as recommended or required. Studded tires are permitted on Arizona highways from Oct. 1 to May 1.
• Ensure your wipers, window defroster, headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals work
• Change your motor oil to a winter grade
• For electric or hybrid vehicles, be sure the battery has sufficient voltage and the connection cables are tight

Get more safety tips at https://azdot.gov/KnowSnow

For Flagstaff area snow-play locations, see FlagstaffArizona.org's Winter Recreation Map or call 844-256-SNOW.

Rain/flood safety tips

The American Red Cross' tips for heavy rain situations and flood safety:

• Turn around don’t drown! If you must drive and you encounter a flooded roadway, turn around and go another way.
• If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground.
• Tune in to your local radio, NOAA radio, or news channels for the latest updates.
• If your neighborhood is prone to flooding, be prepared to evacuate quickly.
• Follow evacuation orders and do not attempt to return until officials say it is safe.
• If power lines are down, do not step in puddles or standing water.
• If power is out, use a flashlight. Do not use any open flame as alternate lighting.

Preparing for a severe thunderstorm 

The American Red Cross' tips for preparing for a severe thunderstorm:

• Put together an emergency kit.
• Know your community’s evacuation plan.
• Create a household disaster plan and practice it.
• Purchase a battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Discuss thunderstorm safety with members of your household. Be aware that a thunderstorm could produce flooding.
• Pick a safe place in your home for household members to gather during a thunderstorm. This should be a place where there are no windows, skylights, or glass doors, which could be broken by strong winds or hail and cause damage or injury.