As snowstorms continue to challenge drivers in the region, the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office (YCSO) and volunteer search and rescue teams were called to action this past weekend. On Friday, March 7, motorists found themselves trapped on Drake Road, an area known to become perilous with the onset of severe weather, according to the YCSO release.
The trouble began when drivers, seeking to circumvent the closure of Interstate 40 due to snow and ice, followed their GPS systems onto Drake Road, which was never intended to serve as an alternate route in such conditions. Despite warnings, these individuals found themselves stuck in snow and mud, prompting emergency assistance. "Despite this, drivers continued to take the off-highway route, creating hazardous situations," the YCSO stated in their report of the incident. One issue that continued to emerge was drivers choosing to follow their navigation systems when it suggested the "alternate route".
In a statement obtained by YCSO, they have urged motorists not to attempt detouring via Drake/Perkinsville Road during snowstorms, regardless of what their GPS may indicate. Their message is clear - trust local advisories, not technology, when it comes to weather-related decisions. This warning comes as the region braces for another potential winter storm later this week.
For current updates on road conditions and closures, the YCSO advises to regularly monitor the Arizona Department of Transportation website or download the az511 app. "We suggest you monitor the AZ Dept of Transportation (ADOT) website or the az511 app for the latest in road conditions and closures," the sheriff's office communicated, emphasizing the importance of being well-informed to ensure safe driving especially during treacherous weather episodes.
