PHOENIX, Ariz. – With Monsoon Awareness Week underway, officials across Arizona, New Mexico, and West Texas are urging drivers to prepare for one of the Southwest’s most dangerous seasonal threats: blowing dust that can turn clear skies into zero-visibility hazards in seconds.
According to the National Weather Service, strong thunderstorm outflows during monsoon season—typically June through September—can rapidly lift dust across major roadways like I-10, I-25, and I-40. These dust storms are especially common in areas near Tucson, Las Cruces, and El Paso, and have led to multi-vehicle pileups in past years.
Motorists are reminded of the #PullAsideStayAlive protocol:
- Pull completely off the road, preferably on the right shoulder
- Turn off all lights so others don’t follow your taillights
- Set the parking brake and take your foot off the brake
- Remain in your seat with your seatbelt fastened until the storm passes
The NWS emphasizes that drivers should never try to outrun a dust storm, no matter how short the distance. These storms can develop quickly and travel at highway speeds, often leaving no time to react.
Officials stress continued awareness throughout the summer, especially during afternoon hours when storm activity peaks.
