Severe winds, blowing dust create dangerous travel conditions across Arizona, New Mexico
WINDOW ROCK
A powerful windstorm is sweeping through Arizona and New Mexico today, bringing hazardous travel conditions, widespread blowing dust and damaging gusts exceeding 60 mph in some areas. The National Weather Service has issued multiple wind advisories and warnings as the dangerous weather continues to impact drivers and residents.
In New Mexico, a dust storm is reducing visibility to less than a quarter mile, making travel life threatening along major roadways, including Interstate 40 between mile markers 172 and 239, Highway 285, and Highway 60. Communities such as Moriarty, Estancia, Edgewood, and Mountainair are experiencing extreme conditions, with dust storms significantly increasing the risk of accidents.
Meanwhile, in Arizona, strong west winds between 20 and 35 mph, with gusts reaching up to 55 mph, are impacting areas including the Little Colorado River Valley, Mogollon Rim, White Mountains, and Black Mesa. The Kaibab Plateau, Chuska Mountains, and Defiance Plateau, where Sawmill, Kinlichee, Pine Springs, and Oak Springs, are located, also face dangerous wind conditions. Cities such as Flagstaff, Holbrook, Winslow, and Window Rock are experiencing widespread impacts, including power outages from snapped tree limbs and travel difficulties for high-profile vehicles.
A wind advisory remains in effect across affected areas in both states until this evening, with warnings extending to 8 p.m. in portions of New Mexico. The Espanola Valley, Jemez Mountains, and San Francisco River Valley are also experiencing powerful gusts up to 50 mph, with reports of reduced visibility below three miles due to blowing dust.
Precautions, safety measures
The NWS urges residents and motorists to take immediate precautions. If driving, avoid dust storms if possible. If caught in one, pull off the road, turn off your lights, and keep your foot off the brake to prevent accidents. Strong crosswinds pose significant hazards for RVs, campers, and tractor-trailers, making travel especially dangerous on highways.
Residents should secure outdoor objects that could be blown away or damaged by the strong winds.
Highway 264,
I-40, WB @ Winslow