Difficult driving conditions across New Mexico, parts of northeast Arizona due to snow and ice
WINDOW ROCK
New Mexico and parts of northeastern Arizona are currently facing challenging driving conditions due to recent snowfall, leading to snow-packed and icy roads across various highways. Law enforcement agencies have issued warnings for drivers in these regions, urging caution and preparedness as visibility remains limited.
In New Mexico, the New Mexico Department of Transportation has reported hazardous conditions on several key routes. Notably, New Mexico State Road 566 from mile marker 0 at Church Rock to mile marker 11 is experiencing difficult driving conditions. Law enforcement advises motorists to reduce speed, obey posted traffic signs, and be vigilant for snowplows working to clear the roads.
The situation is similar along Interstate 40, particularly from the Laguna Interchange (mile marker 114) to Tóhajiileehé (mile marker 131), where officials note that roadways are snow-packed and icy, contributing to poor visibility. Affected segments also include I-40 from the Arizona state line to the Iyanbito Interchange (mile marker 0-36), and U.S. Highway 491 from Gallup to Yah-ta-hey, with similar advisories in effect.
In addition, N.M. State Road 412, U.S. Highway 550, and N.M. State Road 371 are listed among the problematic roads in the area, with law enforcement stressing the importance of maintaining a safe distance from snowplows and being prepared for sudden changes in road conditions.
Meanwhile, in Arizona, areas along Arizona State Highway 264 are dealing with snow and ice, particularly westbound near BIA-Navajo Route 39 at milepost 452 and on the eastbound side near Lagoon Road (MP 475), where traffic signals are reportedly flashing.
Crews are actively plowing and sanding roads in affected areas, but drivers are still encouraged to stay alert to changing conditions. Officials recommend following all traffic updates and treating each journey with caution, especially as snow continues to fall.
Law enforcement is reminding drivers that if they don’t have to travel, it’s best to stay home.
School closures, delays
Adding to the challenges posed by the weather, schools across the region are responding to the inclement conditions with a series of closures and delays. All Gallup-McKinley Schools are closed today, along with Hozho Academy and Rehoboth McKinley Christian School. The University of New Mexico-Gallup campus will also remain closed.
For students requiring remote learning, Mariano Lake Community School and Ojo Encino Day School are implementing remote schooling today. Other institutions are adjusting their schedules, such as Pueblo Pintado Community School and Shiprock Associated Schools, both observing a two-hour delay. In Thoreau, St. Bonaventure School and St. Francis School in Gallup have announced closures, while Tóhajiileehé Community School and Standing Rock Community School are similarly closed.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed and exercise extreme caution if travel is necessary during this hazardous weather event.
Highway 264,
I-40, WB @ Winslow