A massive dust storm is wreaking havoc across New Mexico, prompting authorities to issue urgent travel warnings and enforce major highway closures due to near-zero visibility and extreme wind conditions.
Dangerous Conditions on the Roads
The New Mexico Department of Transportation has closed a 130-mile stretch of Interstate 10, extending from the Arizona state line to areas just west of Las Cruces. Officials report that powerful wind gusts up to 75 mph have turned dry soil into blinding dust clouds, making travel nearly impossible.
Drivers on Interstate 25 near Los Lunas are facing severe conditions, with police reporting visibility dropping to zero in some areas. State Troopers and emergency responders have been deployed to assist stranded motorists and direct traffic in the affected regions.
Multiple Accidents and Injuries
Authorities report a series of multi-vehicle crashes on highways due to the lack of visibility. Interstate 40 near Milagro was shut down after a major collision involving several cars and trucks, compounded by wildfire smoke from nearby blazes. Roswell has also been hit hard, with sections of U.S. Highways 70, 380, and 285 closed due to dangerous driving conditions.
National Weather Service Issues Warnings
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Albuquerque has issued Dust Storm Warnings for large portions of the state, including the Albuquerque metro area, Roswell, and southwestern New Mexico. Officials are warning of visibility dropping below a quarter mile, with crosswinds exceeding 70 mph on major roadways.
“These conditions are life-threatening for travelers. If you must be on the road, pull over to a safe location and wait until visibility improves,” the NWS advised.
Stay Safe: What to Do
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Avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.
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If driving, pull over immediately if visibility worsens.
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Keep windows and vents closed to reduce exposure to dust.
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Stay updated with local weather alerts and road conditions.
Officials are closely monitoring the storm’s movement, and further road closures and evacuation notices may be issued if conditions worsen. Residents are urged to stay indoors, protect pets and livestock, and prepare for potential power outages caused by extreme winds.
As New Mexico battles one of its most intense dust storms in years, emergency teams continue working to keep drivers and residents safe. Stay tuned for further updates as conditions develop.