On Thursday at 9:37 a.m. the National Weather Service released an updated high wind warning in effect until 5 p.m. for Yuma County.

“Northwest winds 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 70 mph,” can be expected according to the NWS. “These plumes are impacting Interstate 70, with one plume observed near mile marker 22.”

“Severely limited visibilities are expected. Travel will be dangerous and possibly life-threatening. Poor air quality may cause issues for people with respiratory problems. High winds may move loose debris, damage property and cause power outages. Travel could be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Plumes of blowing dust will create pockets of low visibility. Visibilities will likely change rapidly over short distances, making travel hazardous in these areas,” comments the NWS. “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’. Be prepared for a prolonged period of poor air quality due to blowing dust. Fasten loose objects or shelter objects in a safe location prior to the onset of winds. Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Use extra caution. Remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Watch for falling debris and tree limbs. Use caution if you must drive. Blowing dust can significantly lower air quality and it is encouraged that you take preventative measures such as staying indoors or wearing protective breathing masks if outside. High dust concentrations can cause respiratory problems, decrease lung activity, aggravate asthma, and lead to potential heart-related problems, especially with children, elderly or those with pre-existing respiratory conditions.”

Understanding high wind alerts

When it comes to high wind alerts, staying informed is essential. The NWS employs three alert levels to convey the severity of high winds:

High wind warning: Take action!

Sustained, strong winds with even stronger gusts are happening. Seek shelter. If you are driving, keep both hands on the wheel and slow down.

Wind advisory: Take action!

Strong winds are occurring but are not so strong as to warrant a High wind warning. Objects that are outdoors should be secured and caution should be taken if driving.

High wind watch: Be prepared!

Sustained, strong winds are possible. Secure loose outdoor items and adjust plans as necessary so you’re not caught outside.

How to prepare before strong winds approach

• Trim tree branches away from your house and power lines.

• Secure loose gutters and shutters.

• Identify an interior room of your house, such as a basement or interior bathroom, that you can take shelter in during high wind warnings.

• If you live in a mobile home, identify a sturdy building you can go to if the NWS issues a high wind or severe thunderstorm warning.

• Charge batteries of all essential items such as cell phones and booster packs, weather radios and power tools such as a reciprocating saw, which you might need to clear debris.

• Update your emergency kit and be sure to include enough food and water to last for 3 days for each person in your home.

• Make a list of items outside your home you will need to tie down or put away so that they don’t blow away or fly through a window. When the NWS issues a high wind watch, immediately secure these items to avoid damage or injury once the wind starts picking up.

How to act during strong winds

Take shelter:

• Immediately go inside a sturdy building during a high wind warning or severe thunderstorm warning and move to an interior room or basement.

• If you are in a mobile home, move to a sturdy building before the winds pick up or the storm system reaches your location.

If caught outside or driving:

• Take shelter in your car if you are not near a sturdy building. If possible, drive to a nearby sturdy building. Otherwise, move your car to a location where it is less likely to be hit by falling trees or power lines.

• If no shelter is available avoid trees, power lines, and the side of the road. Keep in mind that power lines that are laying on the ground may be live. Do not go near them! Try to find a place that will block blowing or falling debris.

• If you are driving and aren’t near a sturdy building, hold the steering wheel with both hands and slow down.

• Keep a distance from high profile vehicles such as trucks, buses and vehicles towing trailers. One strong gust of wind can be enough to flip one of these trailers onto its side.

What to do after strong winds subside

• Do not go near downed power lines. Report downed power lines to the police.

• Be careful when handling debris that may have blown into your yard.

Source: The National Weather Service