Tucson, Arizona – A fast-moving dust storm is slamming western Pinal County this afternoon, sharply reducing visibility along major highways and posing serious travel dangers through 4 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Tucson, the storm was first spotted at 2:34 p.m., seven miles northeast of Pinal Airpark, tracking northwest at 20 mph. Radar confirms visibility has dropped below a quarter mile in several areas, making driving conditions extremely hazardous.
Communities including Eloy, Saddlebrooke, Picacho, and Red Rock are directly in the storm’s path. Key roads affected include Interstate 10 between mile markers 205 and 230, as well as stretches of Routes 79, 87, and 77. Drivers are urged to avoid travel until conditions improve. If caught in blowing dust, officials emphasize: “Pull Aside, Stay Alive.” Turn off headlights and keep your foot off the brake if stopped in low visibility.
The dust storm may lift by early evening, but additional warnings are possible if conditions redevelop.
