On Monday at 11:30 a.m. an updated blowing dust warning was issued by the National Weather Service in effect until 6 p.m. for Del Norte Vicinity/Northern San Luis Valley below 8,500 ft.

“Widespread blowing dust,” can be anticipated according to the NWS. “Winds gusting up to 50 to 60 mph will cause blowing dust. Visibility may drop to under 1/4 mile at times near plowed fields or areas of loose soils. Use extreme caution if you must travel across the area today.”

“Severely limited visibilities are expected. Travel will be dangerous and possibly life-threatening,” comments the NWS. “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’.”

Source: The National Weather Service