Chicago, IL – Drivers across northern and central Illinois into northwestern Indiana are urged to stay off the roads this evening as a fast-moving dust storm brings life-threatening conditions and near-zero visibility along major highways.
According to the National Weather Service in Chicago, two separate Dust Storm Warnings are in effect until 7:30 p.m. CDT for at least 17 counties. A wall of dust, pushed by winds over 60 mph, is racing north across La Salle, Will, Livingston, and Ford counties in Illinois and sweeping into Lake, Jasper, and Newton counties in Indiana.
Multiple interstates are impacted, including I-39, I-55, I-57, I-80, and Indiana I-65. Visibility is dropping below a quarter mile, prompting emergency management to label the event “dangerous and life-threatening” to travelers.
Cities in the dust path include Ottawa, Kankakee, Channahon, Pontiac, Clifton, and Valparaiso, with outdoor landmarks like Starved Rock, Governors State University, and Valparaiso University also affected. The storm may trigger secondary hazards, including strong to severe thunderstorms trailing the dust front.
Motorists are advised to “Pull Aside, Stay Alive” — stop safely, turn off headlights, and avoid braking in blinding dust. Conditions may change rapidly, and further warnings could be issued.
More updates are expected this evening as the situation evolves.
