Headline:
Blowing Dust Advisory issued August 18 at 11:28PM MST until August 19 at 10:00PM MST by NWS Tucson AZ
Event:
Blowing Dust Advisory
Urgency:
Expected
Effective:
August 18, 2026 - 11:28pm
Expires:
August 19, 2026 - 10:00pm
Description:
* WHAT...Strong thunderstorms with organized outflow wind gusts of
45-55 mph will result in blowing dust, reducing visibility between
one-quarter mile and one mile at times. Dense blowing dust will
initially develop across southeast Pima and western Santa Cruz
counties during the late afternoon and spread west to northwest
across the Tohono O'odham Nation and into western Pima and
southeast Pinal counties through the evening.
* WHERE...Upper Santa Cruz River Valley/Altar Valley.
* WHEN...From 3 PM to 10 PM MST Wednesday.
* IMPACTS...Blowing dust can restrict visibilities below a mile
posing a significant hazard to motorists. In addition, strong and
gusty winds will likely suspend dust into the air that people and
animals breathe. Individuals with heart disease and respiratory
sensitivities may want to reduce their level of exertion to limit
the dust they breathe into their lungs, especially if they are near
dust prone locations. Those most at risk may feel better if they
avoid outside exercise today, keeping windows and doors closed to
help reduce exposure.
Instruction:
Persons with respiratory problems should make preparations to stay
indoors until the storm passes. Be ready for a sudden drop in
visibility to near zero. If you encounter blowing dust or blowing
sand on the roadway or see it approaching, pull off the road as far
as possible and put your vehicle in park. Turn the lights all the way
off and keep foot off the brake pedal. Remember, 'Pull Aside, Stay
Alive'.
Area Description:
Upper Santa Cruz River and Altar Valleys including Nogales
Forcast Office:
NWS Tucson AZ
Sender:
w-nws.webmaster@noaa.gov