Las Cruces, New Mexico – Blowing dust and powerful wind gusts are creating dangerous travel conditions across southern New Mexico and far West Texas this afternoon, with visibility dropping as low as a quarter mile in some areas.
According to the National Weather Service in El Paso, a Blowing Dust Advisory and a Wind Advisory remain in effect until 9 p.m. MDT Wednesday for parts of Dona Ana, Otero, and Luna counties in New Mexico, and El Paso and Hudspeth counties in Texas. West winds between 25 and 35 mph are expected, with gusts reaching up to 50 mph.
Drivers along I-10, U.S. 70, and NM-213 should be prepared for sudden drops in visibility, especially near mountain slopes where the winds are strongest. The gusty winds could down tree limbs and cause scattered power outages. High-profile vehicles are particularly at risk for control loss in open desert stretches.
Officials urge drivers to “Pull Aside, Stay Alive” if they encounter a dust storm. Secure any outdoor items that could become projectiles.
Blowing dust may continue into the early evening before winds gradually weaken. Further advisories may be issued if conditions persist.
