Staying Safe During Travel In A Dust Storm

Staying safe during travel in a dust storm

Updated: 8:47 AM MDT Apr 22, 2022

With high winds expected throughout New Mexico today, blowing dust is a major concern on many roadways in the state. Blowing dust can turn into what the DOT calls "blinding dust" in a moment's notice. The New Mexico Department of Transportation urges everyone to reconsider travel plans today. Those who are traveling today, NMDOT is offering these tips to help you stay safe if you're caught in a dust storm. Avoid driving into or through a dust storm. Do not wait until poor visibility makes it difficult to safely pull off the roadway — do it as soon as possible. Completely exit the highway if you can. If you encounter a dust storm, check traffic immediately around your vehicle (front, back and to the side) and begin slowing down. Do not stop in the roadway; pull completely out of the travel lanes and as far onto the right shoulder as possible. Stop the vehicle in a position ensuring it is a safe distance from the main roadway and away from where other vehicles may travel. Turn off all vehicle lights, including your emergency flashers. Set your emergency brake and take your foot off the brake. Stay in the vehicle with your seat belts buckled and wait for the storm to pass. Drivers of high-profile vehicles should be especially aware of changing weather conditions and travel at reduced speeds. You can also check the latest travel conditions by calling 511 or visiting nmroads.com

With high winds expected throughout New Mexico today, blowing dust is a major concern on many roadways in the state.

Blowing dust can turn into what the DOT calls "blinding dust" in a moment's notice.

The New Mexico Department of Transportation urges everyone to reconsider travel plans today. Those who are traveling today, NMDOT is offering these tips to help you stay safe if you're caught in a dust storm.

Avoid driving into or through a dust storm.

Do not wait until poor visibility makes it difficult to safely pull off the roadway — do it as soon as possible. Completely exit the highway if you can.

If you encounter a dust storm, check traffic immediately around your vehicle (front, back and to the side) and begin slowing down.

Do not stop in the roadway; pull completely out of the travel lanes and as far onto the right shoulder as possible.

Stop the vehicle in a position ensuring it is a safe distance from the main roadway and away from where other vehicles may travel.

Turn off all vehicle lights, including your emergency flashers.

Set your emergency brake and take your foot off the brake.

Stay in the vehicle with your seat belts buckled and wait for the storm to pass.

Drivers of high-profile vehicles should be especially aware of changing weather conditions and travel at reduced speeds.

You can also check the latest travel conditions by calling 511 or visiting nmroads.com

Stay safe during Dust Storm also called Haboob in Phoenix, Arizona