Drivers may encounter blowing dust along I-10 southeast of Phoenix

PHOENIX – Drivers should be prepared for blowing dust and reduced visibility along Interstate 10 between Phoenix and Tucson, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.

The National Weather Service says gusty winds were recorded in the Casa Grande area today and the Department of Public Safety reported areas of blowing dust crossing I-10 southeast of Phoenix.

Dust along portions of I-10 is just one of a number of weather-related issues motorists may encounter across the state due to the third in a series of winter storms in recent days.

Drivers should use caution as additional snow, windy conditions and icy spots on highways can still be expected in the state’s high country.

ADOT will continue to monitor information from the National Weather Service as the latest winter storm impacts travel in many areas.

In some locations, including I-10 between Phoenix and Tucson, winds may continue to kick up dust and limit visibility. When that happens, the Arizona Department of Transportation has some straightforward advice: Pull Aside, Stay Alive.

If a dust storm approaches, try to exit the freeway if you can do so safely. If you’re caught in blowing dust, follow these safety tips from PullAsideStayAlive.org:

• Immediately check traffic around your vehicle (front, back and to the side) and begin slowing down.
• Don’t wait until poor visibility makes it difficult to safely pull off the roadway.
• Don’t stop in a travel lane or in the emergency lane.
• Turn off all vehicle lights, including your emergency flashers. You do not want other vehicles approaching from behind to use your lights as a guide, possibly crashing into your parked vehicle.
• Set your emergency brake and take your foot off the brake.
• Stay in the vehicle with your seatbelts buckled and wait for the storm to pass.

As for travel in areas expecting more snow, winter driving tips are available at azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

To stay up to date with the latest highway conditions around the state, visit the ADOT Traveler Information Center at az511.gov, call 511 or follow ADOT on Twitter (@ArizonaDOT).