On Thursday and Friday, the National Weather Service warned that a powerful storm system would sweep through the Little Colorado River Valley, affecting Coconino, Apache and Navajo counties in Arizona, as well as adjacent plateaus in New Mexico . The alerts, issued in Mountain Standard and Daylight Time zones, run from 11:00 AM MST Thursday to 8:00 PM MST, with overlapping periods into Friday.

Little Colorado River Valley Faces a 9‑Hour Storm Window

The core of the alert covers the Little Colorado River Valley, spanning Coconino, Apache and Navajo counties. According to the National Weather Service ,the warning runs from 11:00 AM MST Thursday until 8:00 PM MST, a nine‑hour window that could disrupt travel on local highways such as Hwy 264.

White Mountains, Mogollon Rim and Chuska Mountains Also Under Watch

Additional zones—White Mountains, Eastern and Western Mogollon Rim, Chuska Mountains, Defiance Plateau, Black Mesa and Chinle Valley—are under warnings from Friday midday through the evening. The report notes that these areas will experience similar weather conditions, with timing adjusted for Mountain Daylight Time zones.

Time‑Zone Boundaries Drive Alert Timing

The alerts differ between Mountain Standard and Daylight Time zones, with the latter zones receiving wranings from 12:00 PM MDT to 9 :00 PM MDT on Friday. This duplication reflects the need to address the time‑zone boundary that cuts through parts of Arizona and New Mexico, as highlighted in the National Weather Service’s release.

What Residents Should Do Now

Officials urge residents in the affected counties to stay informed through official channels for the latest updates and to prepare for potential impacts on travel and outdoor activities. The National Weather Service’s detailed forecast zones and times underscore the seriousness of the impending weather event.

Who Is Still Uncertain About the Storm’s Path?

While the National Weather Service has outlined the affected zones, the precise trajectory of the storm system remains unclear. The report does not specify whether the high‑pressure ridge will shift, potentially altering the severity of the warnings. Residents are advised to monitor updates closely.