El Paso, Texas – Drivers in El Paso and southern New Mexico could face dangerous travel conditions through 9 p.m. Wednesday as strong winds stir up widespread blowing dust, reducing visibility to as little as a quarter mile in some areas.
According to the National Weather Service in El Paso, a Blowing Dust Advisory remains in effect for the Salt Basin and Rio Grande Valley of eastern El Paso and western Hudspeth counties. Gusts between 30 and 40 mph are making driving hazardous, especially along I-10 and Highway 62/180.
Meanwhile, a High Wind Warning is also active for the West Central Tularosa Basin, including the White Sands area, where winds may gust up to 60 mph. Visibility remains low, and the risk of downed trees and power lines is high. Officials warn of potential power outages and urge drivers—especially those in high-profile vehicles—to delay travel if possible.
Residents should stay indoors, secure outdoor objects, and keep phones charged in case of outages. The NWS advises: “Pull Aside, Stay Alive” if caught in a dust storm while driving.
Both advisories remain in effect until 9 p.m. MDT, with updates possible if conditions worsen.
