The storm that hit the West Coast is moving inland and is expected to have a major impact on Arizona over the weekend.
Arizona, USA β The first of two major winter storm systems is here. Winter storm warnings and advisories will be posted above 5,500 feet above 5,500 feet until 5pm on Sunday. As of Sunday morning, light showers are moving across the valley, but NWS Phoenix says much rainfall is unlikely.
The Arizona Department of Transportation has announced that several highways in the High Country will be closed due to weather. As of this morning, much of the I-17 and I-40 has reopened.
- State Route 89A is closed between Sedona and I-17.
- California State Route 64 is closed between Mileposts 241 and 268 near the Grand Canyon.
Related: Winter storm hits Arizona
Widespread snow and low desert rain continue to spread eastward from Saturday night through Sunday morning. Snow levels have dropped to about 5,000 feet. Look for much cooler Sunday highs in the late 50s in the low desert and in the high 30s to 50s in the highlands.
Related: Southwest prepares for one-two punch of winter storms
A second Storm System is set to arrive Monday through Tuesday. If cooler air is in place, look for low snow levels down to about 4,000 feet. The wind is not as strong as in the first system.
Related: Arizona radar
Authorities are discouraging people from traveling, but are telling them to pack warm clothes, water, emergency kits and other supplies in case they have to go out.
The Weather Service in Flagstaff, a popular destination for snow play, advised people to stay home until the weekend.
Follow live updates below:
From 11:05 a.m. According to ADOT, I-40 has reopened.
10:10 a.m.- Williams’ Bearizona Wildlife Park had more than a foot of snow in less than 24 hours. At least the animals seem to be having fun!
Bearizona Wildlife Park awakens to a winter wonderland
10 am – Parts of Interstate 40 have reopened, but others remain closed.
From 9:37 a.m. I-17 has reopened, but other closures remain.
From 8:51 a.m. It’s a tricky place in the high country. More roads are being closed from ADOT as winter weather continues to hit the region.
From 8:20 a.m. The rain will clear from the valley later this morning, with cloudy days and temperatures in the low to mid 60s.
From 7:53 a.m. Showers are moving across the valley, but NWS Phoenix said no more than 0.10 to 0.25 inches of rain is expected.
From 7:20 a.m. ADOT has updated its list of highway closures.
From 6:50 a.m. Most of Flagstaff still has steady snow, but the NWS says the snow is easing in the western part of the state.
6:30 a.m.- Light showers are moving west-to-east across Maricopa County and are expected to become stronger in the morning.
6:10 a.m.- ADOT has announced multiple highway closures due to winter weather conditions. Snowplows are in operation 24 hours a day in the affected areas.
10 pm – According to the National Weather Service, snow is beginning to accumulate along I-40 west of Flagstaff.
9:40 p.m. – Rising creeks, creeks and some dry washes are expected early next week with precipitation.
8:30pm – Snow has started to fall on the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park.
7:20 p.m. – It’s raining lightly in La Paz County on Saturday night. The road is already wet and drivers are being asked to slow down.
18:25ο½ The National Weather Service has issued a strong wind advisory for areas near and north of the White Mountains.
6:14 p.m. Flooding threatens as heavy rain continues to hit California, according to the National Weather Service.
Arizona weather essentials
Droughts, wildfires, heat, monsoon storms: Arizona experiences some pretty bad weather. Learn everything there is to know about the ever-changing Grand Canyon State forecast here.
