Severe Dust Storms Sweep Through Texas and New Mexico

A powerful dust storm has swept across Texas and New Mexico, bringing strong winds, near-zero visibility, and widespread disruptions. The National Weather Service issued emergency alerts, warning residents of hazardous conditions and potential health risks, particularly for infants and the elderly.

Winds reaching up to 70 mph forced authorities to shut down major highways, including a 130-mile stretch of Interstate 10 from Arizona to Las Cruces, New Mexico. The dangerous conditions caused traffic delays and left thousands stranded.

More than 39,000 customers lost power as high winds knocked down power lines. Utility companies have warned that additional outages may occur as the storm continues.

Beyond Texas and New Mexico, dust storms have caused deadly accidents in recent days. Last week, a similar storm in Kansas led to a massive pileup on Interstate 70, killing eight people.