THE SNOW CAME, AND SO DID THE RESCUE CALLS FOR STRANDED MOTORISTS!

Published on March 10, 2025

The snow came and then came the calls for help.

On Friday March 7th (and into the early morning hours of March 8), YCSO Forest Patrol Deputies and the 4x4 Volunteer Search and Rescue teams helped rescue several stranded drivers on Drake Road (between I-40 and Hwy 89). These drivers were attempting to bypass the snow and ice closure of Interstate 40 but became stuck in the snow and mud.

Drake Road was closed and is never meant to be a bypass in bad weather. Despite this, drivers continued to take the off-highway route, creating hazardous situations. One big problem: drivers obeying their cell phone navigation system (GPS), when it recommended the "alternate route". 

This is an ongoing issue during snowstorms when I-40 is closed. With another winter storm possibly approaching this week, please help spread the word: DO NOT attempt to detour via Drake/Perkinsville Road, no matter what your navigation system suggests you do. Listen to YCSO, not GPS!

We suggest you monitor the AZ Dept of Transportation (ADOT) website or the az511 app for the latest in road conditions and closures. And please drive safely all the time, but particularly in treacherous conditions caused by poor weather.