I am dreaming of a white Christmas… as the words of Irving Berlin resonate your living room, along with embers off your fireplace, it also triggers snow-white holiday hopes. So, if you wish to see your Santa dashing through the snow (albeit metaphorically), then it’s time to head to the high country. Early forecasts by the National Weather Service (NWS) have predicted snow and rain as also below average temperatures in Coconino County, Prescott, Flagstaff and Sedona on Christmas day.
A tweet by the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has been issued as an advisory to prepare holiday travelers heading up Northern Arizona. Though there won’t be any snowing in the Valley, residents may have wetter and cooler Christmas this year with 30 percent chances of a shower, according to the weather website.
Moreover, predictions are also in place for a nip in the air as the temperatures may further plunge and plan to continue their cold trail through the weekend.
Up north may see snowfall of 1 to 4 inches as per the forecast by the NWS. Also, there are chances of snow showers on Thursday afternoon too. It seems freezing temperatures would have their way for a frosty weekend too.
So, all you Holiday revelers turn travelers, please keep this in mind, says ADOT:
- It’s always better to plan your travel route in advance.
- Much better to keep someone in the loop about your route, destination and estimated arrival time.
- Fill your fuel tank and try to keep it at three-quarters full.
- Running out of gas — especially in a remote location — is extremely dangerous during winter conditions.
- Visit az511.gov or dial 511 for updated road and weather conditions.
- Although, never use a cell phone or mobile device while driving.
In another advisory, ADOT has requested travelers to keep emergency winter supplies handy:
- Fully charged cell phones
- Safety flares
- Non-perishable snacks, pre-packaged fruits, nuts, and nutrition bars
- Gloves, scarves, caps and extra socks
- Travel toolkit and battery cables
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Drinking water
- Winter coats and warm blankets
- First-aid kit, prescription medicines
- Small shovel, ice scraper
- Bag of sand for tire traction
