Overnight storm hits Arizona with snow, rain, tornado alerts

PHOENIX (AP) — A winter storm packed an unexpected punch overnight up and down Arizona with snow, rain and even tornado warnings.

The National Weather Service in Phoenix issued two warnings between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. Friday, when winds were as high as 70 mph in some areas.

Meteorologists say the wet and wild weather was the culmination of a strong cold front that came from California.

Residents throughout metro Phoenix have reported downed trees and minor flooding.

Firefighters had to rescue one driver who became stuck in a flooded wash.

Meanwhile, the Arizona Department of Transportation has reopened two interstate highways in northern Arizona after snow forced closures Thursday night.

The National Weather Service has reported at least 3 inches (8 centimeters) of new snow in Flagstaff.