A strong wind gust sweeps across the exposed ground in TOPEKA, Kan., kicking up dirt and dust so thick that visibility is nearly zero. Drivers are caught off guard as a sudden dust storm descends seemingly out of nowhere. This weather phenomenon resulted in a massive pileup on Interstate 70 in western Kansas last week, involving numerous vehicles and tragically claiming the lives of eight people. The blinding dust also forced the closure of Interstate 25 in New Mexico from the Colorado border to Las Vegas due to hazardous conditions.
The hazy and dust-filled skies serve as a stark reminder of the “Dust Bowl” era of the 1930s when vast amounts of blowing soil devastated farms and communities across the Great Plains. Although lesser dust storms occur annually, particularly in the western U.S., many drivers fail to recognize the serious threat they pose. Scientists like Daniel Tong from George Mason University express concerns over the lack of public awareness regarding the dangers of dust storms.
Fatalities from dust storms have a long history, with recent incidents including a deadly pileup on I-25 in New Mexico and a tragic accident on I-55 in Illinois. Research published in the Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society reveals a significant number of deaths attributed to “windblown dust events” between 2007 and 2017, surpassing official data records.
Meteorologists explain that a sudden cold front passing through western Kansas exacerbated the dust storm conditions, leading to reduced visibility and subsequent collisions on the road. A preliminary investigation indicates that 71 vehicles, including numerous semis, were involved in the pileup. The intensity of the dust storm made it difficult for individuals to see or even breathe properly outdoors.
Similar hazardous conditions in eastern Colorado prompted warnings from authorities about zero visibility due to high winds and blowing dirt. The unpredictability and severity of dust storms highlight the importance of awareness and caution for drivers navigating affected areas.
In Amar, Colorado, Martin advises getting far off the road in a parking lot or similar area during a dust storm. The lack of visibility is one issue, but he also mentioned that it’s difficult to gauge the thickness of dust from a distance. This often leads motorists to realize they can’t see clearly only when they’re already in the midst of it. Weather Service experts note that some advice for drivers in dust storms may seem counterintuitive. NWS meteorologist Michael Anand in Albuquerque recommended pulling over safely, turning off all lights, and avoiding the use of high beams. This is important to prevent confusion among other drivers and maintain safety on the road. Dust storms add challenges to driving due to high winds and the road being covered in fine particles, making braking more difficult and causing panic among drivers. Tong emphasized the importance of educating drivers on how to handle dust storms, suggesting that states should include this topic in license exams to ensure road safety awareness.
