NM Department of Transportation issues wind and dust warning for southwest New Mexico
NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – Officials are warning of high wind and dusty conditions on March 24 in southwest New Mexico. Winds could gust up to 70 miles per hour, officials say.
The National Weather Service says winds from 35 to 45 miles per hour could blow along the I-10 corridor. Dust could cause travel issues, the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) says.
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“NMDOT would like to remind the traveling public, blowing dust can escalate to blinding dust storms as they move quickly through remote areas. If you must travel, we recommend you monitor local forecast conditions prior to starting your trip and visit our web site as roadway conditions may change quickly throughout New Mexico,” the department said in a press release.
Up-to-date travel advisories are posted to nmroads.com. Travelers can also call 511 for information.
NMDOT offers these tips for travel:
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.
