With a white (or wet) Christmas coming, leave prepared and be patient

ADOT’s advice: Research conditions, slow

down and delay travel if necessary

PHOENIX ‒ Whether yours is a white Christmas or a wet Christmas, the Arizona Department of Transportation will make you a deal: With rain and snow in the forecast, ADOT will be ready to respond before, during and after to whatever the weather may bring. In return, you should study weather and highway conditions before your trip, leave prepared and drive with patience ‒  or delay travel if conditions warrant. The latest National Weather Service forecast for Arizona’s high country calls for between 6 and 12 inches of snow at elevations between 6,000 and 8,000 feet beginning late Saturday morning and continuing into Saturday evening. Windblown snow is expected to create hazardous driving conditions in areas. For lower elevations, the latest forecast calls for rain and gusting wind during the same period. ADOT has nearly 200 snowplows and 400 certified snowplow operators ready to clear highways around the state, but if snowfall is heavy and widespread it may take some time for them to reach every stretch. You hold the keys to safety if your route may have snow and ice. These are just some of the winter-driving tips available at azdot.gov/KnowSnow. Slow down: Adjust your speed to conditions. Create space: Leave extra room.   Avoid sudden braking.  Give snowplows room. Bring extra clothing and gloves Make sure your tank is half to three-quarters full at all times. Keep your cellphone charged. Pack extra water, snacks and all necessary medications. Pack an emergency kit: blankets, a flashlight, an ice scraper. Beware of black ice.  Ice tends to form on bridges first. Consider waiting it out. Many of these tips apply to driving on wet roads as well, including waiting out threatening weather if need be. Here are some others: Inspect windshield wipers and replace them if necessary. Turn on headlights while driving. Avoid areas where water is pooling in travel lanes. Wherever your travels take you this holiday weekend, you can get the latest highway conditions by calling 511 or visiting the Arizona Traveler Information site (az511.gov), where traffic and weather cameras allow you to see current conditions around the state.  ADOT’s Facebook (facebook.com/AZDOT) and Twitter (@ArizonaDOT) accounts are excellent sources of information and interaction.