On Wednesday at 9 p.m. an updated blowing dust warning was released by the National Weather Service in effect until Thursday at midnight for Cheyenne County.

The NWS says to expect, “Patches of blowing dust and brown out conditions.”

“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,” explains 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’. Roads may close due to hazardous driving conditions in blowing dust. Traveling in blowing dust is very dangerous, do not attempt to go around barricades. Fasten loose objects or shelter objects in a safe location prior to the onset of winds.”

Source: The National Weather Service