Roswell, NM – A dangerous dust storm has forced road closures and created life-threatening travel conditions across central Chaves County, prompting a warning from the National Weather Service (NWS) in Albuquerque.
According to the NWS, the warning remains in effect until 3:45 PM MST Tuesday as blowing dust reduces visibility to less than a quarter mile. The storm is currently stationary near Roswell, with near-zero visibility reported along the Roswell Relief Route between Sunset and Brasher.
Authorities have closed portions of U.S. Highways 285 and 70 due to the extreme conditions. Impacted areas include Roswell, Dexter, Hagerman, Bottomless Lakes State Park, Lake Arthur, Greenfield, Midway, and the Roswell Correctional Facility.
The NWS urges drivers to avoid the area and not attempt to drive through the dust storm. If caught in low visibility, motorists should pull over and wait for conditions to improve.
Residents are advised to monitor weather updates and limit travel until the warning expires.
