Bellemont is an unincorporated community in Coconino County, Arizona, United States, located along Interstate 40, about 11 miles (18 km) west-northwest of Flagstaff. At an elevation of 7,132 feet (2,174 m), it is claimed to be the highest settlement along historic Route 66. It was a known water stop due to its local springs. As of June 2012, it had an estimated population of 893.[2]
History
Bellemont's population was 113 in 1940,[3] and 25 in the 1960 census.[4]
On October 6, 2010, Bellemont was struck by three rare strong tornadoes in short succession. The 1st tornado was rated EF2, the second was rated EF3, and the third was rated EF2.[5] The tornadoes made 15 homes uninhabitable, resulting in the evacuation of about 30 people.[5] A train and 30 recreational vehicles were damaged, but no serious injuries or deaths were reported.[5]
On May 13, 2019, actor Issac Kappy committed suicide by jumping off the Hughes Ave./Transwestern Rd. overpass for Interstate 40 in Bellemont, then being struck by a passing car on the eastbound side.[7][8]
Climate
The Bellemont region experiences warm (but not hot) and dry summers, with no average monthly temperatures above 71.6 °F (22.0 °C). It has an average 248.6 days per year with low temperatures below 32 °F (0 °C).[9] According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Bellemont has a continental climate (abbreviated "Dsb" on climate maps).[10]
