GRAND CANYON, Ariz. - As residents of the Grand Canyon area, as well as other parts of northern Arizona, dig themselves out of the week's first dangerous winter storm, even more of the white stuff is expected to arrive this week. Blizzard warnings were called for in the early parts of the week with nearly two feet of snow accumulation in some areas, causing numerous road closures and cancellations. Administrators at Grand Canyon School ended classes at 1 p.m. Dec. 7 and the Community Open House, also scheduled for Dec. 7, was cancelled due to inclement weather. Organizers now plan to hold the Community Open House Dec. 9 beginning at around 6:30 p.m.
A small break
Partly cloudy conditions are expected today with a 20 percent chance of rain and snow showers expected. High temperatures will range between 34 to 42 degrees with lows around 15 degrees.
More snow is called for tomorrow, with a 40 percent chance of rain and snow showers in the Grand Canyon area, becoming a 50 percent chance in the evening hours. Highs will be around 33 degrees, with low temperatures around 16 degrees. High temperatures along the Colorado River are expected around 49 degrees. A 40 percent chance of rain and snow showers is expected Friday with high temperatures around 33 degrees. Low temperatures are expected around 21 degrees Friday and Saturday night. By Sunday, chances for precipitation are expected to drop to 20 percent.
Use caution while driving
Snowy, ice-packed roads are expected within the Grand Canyon National Park through most of the week. Canyon officials recommend drivers use extreme diligence when traveling in the park. This week's earlier storm closed Hermit Road, also known as West Rim Road, due to bad driving conditions. Call (928) 638-7888 for current road and weather conditions within the national park. Call 1-888-411-7623 for information on driving conditions on Arizona's roads outside of the park.
Anyone driving during a winter storm is asked to take extra precautions in preparation for their trip. A cell phone, extra clothes, flashlights, extra food and water are recommended before driving in snowy conditions. It is always recommended to be patient and allow for extra time when driving in a winter storm.
