'Major storm' impacts state's roadways

More rain expected into Tuesday

Pumps along Valley freeways have been working hard to clear a tremendous amount of rainfall that fell during a short amount of time this afternoon, after a major storm hit many parts of the Valley and other parts of the state.

Heading into the evening rush hours, drivers should be aware that Interstate 17 in the north Valley received a tremendous amount of rain. At this hour, portions of Deer Valley Road, Bell Road and Greenway Road are closed under the freeway due to flooding. The exits at Greenway Road are also closed. Although I-17 is OPEN to drivers.

Other areas of the state have also seen flooding, including:

• State Route 71 is closed in both directions approximately one mile south of US 93.
• State Route 386 is closed in both directions between SR 86 and Kitt Peak Observatory.
• Salome Road is closed near Interstate 10, approximately 80 miles east of the California border.
• Eastbound State Route 88 is closed at milepost 200, northeast of Apache Junction.

Conditions are subject to change as floodwaters recede, please continue to check with ADOT on Twitter (@arizonadot), or the ADOT Facebook page before you head out. 

More rain is expected throughout the state tonight and into tomorrow. It’s important that drivers take it slow and drive safely in heavy rain and low visibility conditions:

• First and foremost SLOW DOWN. The posted speed limit may not be a safe speed to travel in bad weather. On wet roads your vehicle will have less traction than on a dry road. Slower travel speeds allow for safer braking and stopping distances. 
• Be sure to leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front of you and be aware of the vehicles around you in other travel lanes. Braking and shorter stopping distances will be affected by wet and slippery roadway surfaces. 
• Do not enter an area where the roadway has been closed by barricades due to flooding. You risk your life and face being cited under the state’s stupid motorist law. 
• Storm runoff can loosen boulders and rocks on slopes above highways. Stay alert in rockfall-prone areas. 
• Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control or possible stalling. One to two feet of water will float most vehicles and can cause them to be swept away. 

Drivers can get the latest travel information by calling 5-1-1 or by logging on to www.az511.gov.