A powerful storm dumped nearly 3 feet of snow across much of northern Arizona this week, with more expected to fall this weekend.

After a three-day break in snowfall on Friday, more storms are moving through the high country, dumping another 4 to 6 inches across the northern, central and eastern parts of the state into Saturday, the National Weather Service said. There is a possibility of rain. The heaviest accumulation is expected along the Mogollon Rim and White Mountains.

Heavy snow has made travel across much of the highlands extremely dangerous, even impossible in many places, and the Arizona Department of Transportation has finally announced that long stretches of Interstate 17, Interstate 40, , forcing the closure of eight highways, including State Route 89A.

By Friday morning, nearly all major roads had been cleared, except for the eastern portion of State Route 64, which connects to the southern rim of the Grand Canyon.

Many schools in Flagstaff have been closed since Wednesday due to inclement weather. We plan to resume accepting students next week after the storm has fully cleared.

Flood risk: For areas of northern Arizona after the winter storm

It was the largest storm system to pass through Flagstaff so far this winter, quickly surpassing the nearly 22 inches of snow the city recorded throughout January, news outlets said. National Weather Service data.

Skiers and snowboarders flocked to the area this week after the Arizona Snowbowl received 55 inches of snow over the past three days. This brought the ski area's season total to 140 inches. According to information, all lifts and trails were open. Resort website.

Chains and a four-wheel drive vehicle are required to trek to the slopes, but a free shuttle is available at Fort Valley Lodge at the base of Snowbowl Road.

Here's where to contact the reporter: LLatch@gannett.com.

The Republic's coverage of northern Arizona is supported in part by a grant from Report for America. To support local news coverage like this in Arizona, please make a tax-deductible donation. supportjournalism.azcentral.com.

This article originally appeared in the Arizona Republic. Heavy snowstorm blankets Flagstaff in northern Arizona