Drivers Beware: Major Arizona Freeway Shut Down by Severe Weather Conditions

Two sections of I-40 are closed in northern Arizona, while State Route 89A has reopened.

PHOENIX — Travelers should remain cautious as winter weather impacts the region. Major closures have occurred on Interstate 40, attributed to multiple vehicle slide-offs. The Arizona Department of Transportation reported eastbound lanes near Kingman and Ash Fork are shut down, necessitating detours onto southbound US 93 at milepost 72 toward Phoenix.

Westbound I-40 has been closed near Winslow to facilitate clearing efforts amid a significant traffic jam exceeding 15 miles. This congestion arose from numerous vehicles sliding off the road and associated crashes, worsened by ongoing winter storms.

For those heading west from Flagstaff, alternative routes are recommended. The Arizona Department of Transportation suggests detouring south on I-17, then continuing west through Prescott, Wickenburg, or Phoenix to avoid the delays.

Earlier, Interstate 17 southbound at Munds Park was closed but has since reopened. However, drivers should still anticipate delays on this route.

Meanwhile, both directions of State Route 89A have reopened between Sedona and the I-17 interchange. This route connects Sedona to Flagstaff, providing a viable option for drivers in the area.

ADOT continues to advise caution. Travelers are encouraged to delay their trips until after the storm subsides, noting that if travel is necessary, they should prepare for longer travel times. Snowplow operations are ongoing, and drivers should maintain a safe distance of at least four car lengths from the snowplows, avoiding any attempts to pass.