High winds, blowing dust prompt travel advisory in southern New Mexico

Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - The National Weather Service has issued a high wind and blowing dust advisory for southern New Mexico on Tuesday, March 18, forecasting sustained wind speeds between 30 and 45 mph, with gusts reaching between 60 and 75 mph.

The strongest winds and highest risk of blowing dust will occur between noon and 9 p.m., according to the weather service. The conditions could significantly reduce visibility, creating whiteout conditions on roadways and making travel hazardous, especially along Interstate 10 and U.S. Highway 70.

Southern New Mexico has experienced several dust storms in recent weeks, leading to hazardous driving conditions, road closures, and multiple crashes along Interstate 10.

The weather service and New Mexico Department of Transportation urge motorists to closely monitor weather conditions and follow these specific safety guidelines if caught in a dust storm:

— Avoid driving into or through dust storms.
— Do not wait until poor visibility makes it difficult to safely pull off the roadway — pull over as soon as possible.
— Completely exit the highway if possible.
— If you encounter a dust storm, stop checking traffic and carefully pull off the road.
— Stop the vehicle completely, making sure it is safely off the traveled portion of the roadway.
— Turn off all vehicle lights, including your emergency flashers.
— Set your emergency brake and remove your foot from the brake pedal.
— Stay in the vehicle with your seat belt buckled and wait for the storm to pass.

Drivers of high-profile vehicles are advised to be particularly cautious because of the increased risk posed by strong winds.

The New Mexico Department of Transportation will continue to monitor conditions and update travel advisories as needed.