A blowing dust warning was issued by the National Weather Service on Wednesday at 7:14 p.m. in effect until 9 p.m. for Yuma and Kit Carson counties.

“Widespread blowing dust and localized brown out conditions,” can be anticipated according to the NWS. “Outflow from thunderstorms is kicking up some dust and currently impacting Interstate 70 around Seibert as Colorado Department of Transportation cameras confirm. The outflow is moving to the east towards the state line.”

“Severely limited visibilities are expected. Travel will be dangerous and possibly life-threatening. Poor air quality may cause issues for people with respiratory problems,” describes the NWS. “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. 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