Dust storm prompts NWS advisory, closure of Illinois interstates

BJ Lutz
·1 min read
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CHICAGO — Dust storms swept through central parts of Illinois on Tuesday afternoon, prompting an advisory from the National Weather Service and the temporary closure of a portion of two interstates.

Authorities at about 6:30 p.m. closed a portion of Interstate 155 near Tremont, southeast of Peoria, in both directions due to dust creating “brownout conditions.”

Three hours earlier, motorists passing through the area of McLean were encouraged to seek an alternate route as Interstate 55 was closed in both directions near milepost 146 due to dust blowing from the east. Authorities rerouted traffic in the area.

Total Traffic: Check Chicago-area traffic times, cameras and problem areas

Another dust storm swept over Interstate 74 at milepost 152, near Le Roy, at around 4 p.m.

“There is no visibility at times,” Illinois State Police said.

The National Weather Service office in Lincoln issued a dust advisory at 4:02 p.m. for Logan, Woodford, Piatt, De Witt, Tazewell, Vermilion, McLean, Champaign and Macon counties that was scheduled to last until 6 p.m.

Authorities reminded that dust storms can strike suddenly and offered the following tips for motorists who encounter a dust storm:

  • Pull off the road as far as possible

  • Stop and turn off all lights

  • Set the emergency brake

  • Keep your foot off the brake and turn off taillights

  • Do not get out of your vehicle

  • Keep your seatbelt on

Wind is a concern throughout the evening as the Chicago area braces for a line of evening storms.

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