A wet forecast as Christmas weekend approaches means drivers should focus on safety – including slowing down – if they are traveling in rain or snow, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.
Motorists should leave plenty of braking distance behind other vehicles, budget extra travel time and be patient if weather affects driving conditions.
Here are additional winter and wet weather safety recommendations:
- Stay up to date on weather and highway conditions: In addition to following National Weather Service forecasts (weather.gov), drivers can visit ADOT’s Traveler Information site at az511.gov, download the AZ511 app (download free for Apple and Android devices) or call 511 for highway conditions.
- Leave prepared: Dress for cold weather if traveling into the high country. Bring extra clothes and gloves as part of an emergency prep kit in case you need to stop along a highway. Be sure your cellphone is charged and pack extra drinking water, food and prescription medications (in case you encounter delays).
- Other items for an emergency kit: Blankets, flashlight, ice scraper, small shovel are helpful items to consider carrying in your vehicle if headed into winter weather conditions. ADOT has a complete list of items at azdot.gov/KnowSnow > Must haves for every vehicle.
Drivers also can look for travel condition messages on ADOT’s statewide network of electronic signs. ADOT’s feed on X/formerly Twitter (@ArizonaDOT) and the agency’s Facebook page (facebook.com/AZDOT) also provide information and answers about highway conditions.
