Monahans, TX – Drivers along Interstate 20 in West Texas could encounter near-zero visibility Tuesday afternoon as a fast-moving wall of dust sweeps across parts of Ward, Ector, Winkler, and Crane counties, creating dangerous travel conditions near Monahans.
According to the National Weather Service in Midland/Odessa, a Dust Storm Warning remains in effect until late Tuesday afternoon after a dust channel moved over Monahans around mid-afternoon. Visibility at the Monahans airport weather station dropped to about one-quarter mile while wind gusts exceeded 60 mph, pushing thick dust across highways and rural roads.
The most hazardous conditions are expected along Interstate 20 between mile markers 69 and 93, where blowing dust could suddenly drop visibility to near zero. Communities including Monahans, Wickett, Thorntonville, and areas near Roy Hurd Memorial Airport and Monahans Sandhills State Park are directly in the storm’s path.
Officials warn that these conditions can quickly become life-threatening for motorists. Drivers should avoid travel through dust storms when possible. If caught in one, pull completely off the roadway, turn off vehicle lights, and keep your foot off the brake to avoid being struck by other vehicles.
Strong winds across the Permian Basin may continue to kick up blowing dust into the evening, and additional advisories could be issued if conditions worsen.
Five Day Forecast for Monahans, Texas
Tuesday Night: Windy with lingering blowing dust early, clearing late. Low near 46.
Wednesday: Sunny and breezy. High near 71.
Thursday: Mostly sunny with lighter winds. High near 74.
Friday: Warm and dry. High near 78.
Saturday: Partly sunny with increasing winds. High near 80.
