Rain makes Phoenix freeways a little more hazardous than usual

PHOENIX — A day doesn’t go by in Phoenix without an accident occurring on a freeway. Add rain and the odds multiply.

The Arizona Department of Public Safety said there were more than 80 accidents on Valley freeways Tuesday morning, mostly because of unsafe driving in the rain. No one was injured.

The National Weather Service said 2.13 inches of rain had been recorded at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, the 10th-wettest day in city history.

The rain also forced the closure of one intersection and three elementary schools in the Valley.

But before schools were open, the commuter rush had begun.

Since 5 a.m., troopers have responded to over 80 crashes in Metro Phoenix. Many could have been avoided if the drivers followed the suggestions below! Luckily, they’ve all been minor to no injury crashes. All hands are on-deck and every trooper is busy. pic.twitter.com/Mv0zUlIAxK

— Dept. Public Safety (@Arizona_DPS) October 2, 2018

SR 51 SB at Bethany Home: Left lane blocked for a crash. #phxtraffic pic.twitter.com/zipPVcazfJ

— Arizona DOT (@ArizonaDOT) October 2, 2018

US 60 WB at L-101: Middle lane blocked for a crash. #phxtraffic #azwx pic.twitter.com/jeODMyg9Rw

— Arizona DOT (@ArizonaDOT) October 2, 2018

SR 51 SB at Highland: Right lane blocked for a collison. #phxtraffic #azwx pic.twitter.com/E9N1sft6Se

— Arizona DOT (@ArizonaDOT) October 2, 2018

Watch for a rollover crash at L-101 and SR 51. #phxtraffic pic.twitter.com/vMzSwECC9T

— Arizona DOT (@ArizonaDOT) October 2, 2018

I-17 SB at Jefferson: Right lane blocked for a collision. #phxtraffic #azwx pic.twitter.com/3wrTEH1QCb

— Arizona DOT (@ArizonaDOT) October 2, 2018

US 60 WB at Alma School: HOV and left lanes blocked for a crash. #phxtraffic #azwx pic.twitter.com/iAlCCzxneD

— Arizona DOT (@ArizonaDOT) October 2, 2018

SR 51 SB south of Thomas: Right lane blocked for a crash. #phxtraffic #azwx pic.twitter.com/twd6i7Rdbh

— Arizona DOT (@ArizonaDOT) October 2, 2018

Bore the news of high volume of accidents, troopers had tweeted out a reminder to drivers to be safe.

Eventually, the agency recommended drivers go slower, and allow more time for stopping.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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