Rain and Major Freeway Restrictions: Your Phoenix Commute Update for January 23

Rain and Major Freeway Restrictions: What to Expect for Your Friday Commute

Commuters in the Valley should prepare for a mix of wet weather and significant roadwork as we head into the weekend. While the morning rush started relatively smoothly, a series of planned restrictions and weather conditions will likely impact your travel throughout the day, Friday, Jan. 23, 2026.

Freeway Alerts: I-17 and Loop 202

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has issued several advisories for major arteries today. The most significant impacts involve Interstate 17 and the Santan Freeway:

• I-17 (North Phoenix): Expect rolling lane closures and restrictions between the Carefree Highway (SR 74) and Anthem Way for lane striping. Northbound traffic will see restrictions from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. today, while southbound lanes will be narrowed at times from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Overnight, the freeway will be reduced to a single lane in both directions starting at 7 p.m.
• Loop 202 Santan Freeway (Southeast Valley): A major widening project continues to impact traffic between Loop 101 and Val Vista Drive. Notably, Arizona Avenue and Lindsay Road will both close in both directions at the Loop 202 starting at 10 p.m. tonight. The westbound Loop 202 on-ramp at Arizona Avenue will also be closed. Drivers are encouraged to use Alma School Road as an alternative.

Surface Street Closures

In addition to freeway work, several local projects are affecting travel across the city. The Street Transportation Department has flagged the following areas for utility and infrastructure work:

• 107th Avenue: Partial closures are in effect between Indian School Road and Calle Del Sol.
• 10th Street: Expect delays between University Drive and Hammond Lane due to ongoing utility improvements.
• 11th Avenue: A long-term project is restricting traffic between Jefferson and Madison Streets.

Public Transit and Weather Impact

Valley Metro reports that most bus and light rail services are operating on regular weekday schedules. However, passengers should be aware that major regional service changes are scheduled to take effect this coming Monday, Jan. 26. Commuters are advised to check their specific routes for upcoming adjustments.

Weather will also factor into the Friday commute. The National Weather Service has forecasted light rain for the Phoenix metro area today, with a 25% chance of showers during the day increasing to 35% tonight. Temperatures will reach a high of 67°F. With slick roads possible, drivers should maintain a safe following distance. Additionally, be aware that City of Phoenix GIS mapping applications may be temporarily unavailable starting at 7 p.m. tonight due to system upgrades, which may affect some real-time transit and closure tools.