Midland, Texas – Drivers across the Permian Basin and southeastern New Mexico could lose visibility within seconds Tuesday as wind gusts up to 65 mph whip up thick blowing dust from late morning through the evening commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Midland/Odessa, a High Wind Warning and Blowing Dust Advisory take effect at 10 a.m. MST / 11 a.m. CST Tuesday and remain in place until 8 p.m. MST / 9 p.m. CST. West winds will range from 35 to 45 mph with gusts reaching 65 mph across Eddy County Plains, Lea County and eastern Culberson County. Surrounding counties including Andrews, Dawson, Gaines, Loving, Winkler and Reeves County Plains are under a Wind Advisory with gusts up to 50 mph. Southern Lea County, the Davis Mountains Foothills and the Van Horn and Highway 54 corridor could see gusts near 55 mph.
Blowing dust may reduce visibility to between one-quarter mile and one mile, with sudden drops to near zero possible over open fields and along stretches of I-20, U.S. 285 and Highway 54. High-profile vehicles such as tractor trailers and campers face the greatest risk of rollover in crosswinds.
Secure loose outdoor objects before 11 a.m. CST and avoid unnecessary travel during peak winds. If driving, slow down, use low-beam headlights and leave extra following distance. Turbulence will also increase for low-flying aircraft near mountain areas.
Wind and dust threats ease after 9 p.m. CST Tuesday, but additional advisories remain possible if conditions persist.
