Dust Storms in North Texas: What You Need to Know
As North Texans have been luxuriating in spring temperatures and sunshine, they’ve also experienced sustained high winds that have brought a lot of dust. On multiple occasions this month, the National Weather Service’s Fort Worth office has alerted metro area residents of strong blowing dust, sometimes impacting visibility. It was forecast to make an appearance again on Wednesday, with winds ranging from 25 to 35 miles per hour.
Related: A highway pileup in western Kansas shows how dust storms can turn deadly. Here’s what to know about the dust:
D-FW Weather Wise
What is Causing the Dust in North Texas?
Strong west winds have affected most of the state in recent weeks, picking up dust in New Mexico and West Texas, Sarah Barnes, a meteorologist with the weather service said. The dust has traveled from west to east, with some landing in Dallas-Fort Worth. Barnes noted the metro area has not seen the recurring reduction in visibility other parts of the state have experienced, such as in the Texas Panhandle.
ICYMI: A Wind Advisory is in effect through 9 PM. Sustained winds will range between 20-30 mph, with higher gusts between 35-45 mph. Additionally, these winds have brought in more dust from West Texas making the skies appear hazy this morning. #dfwwx #ctxwx pic.twitter.com/tckowRjp7v
— NWS Fort Worth (@NWSFortWorth) March 19, 2025
What Makes Dust Dangerous When Driving?
The biggest threat from dust is reduced visibility. It can be difficult for drivers to estimate the thickness of the dust until they’re in it and their visibility is reduced, sometimes down to zero. In that situation, drivers often slow down substantially and then get hit by other cars.
But visibility isn’t the only threat. The high winds can coat the roads with fine dust particles, making it harder to brake. This can be particularly hazardous for drivers who are not used to driving in such conditions.
Is the Dust Normal for North Texas?
Not really. Barnes said a day of hazy skies here or there isn’t abnormal for the region, but the continued pattern of substantial dust is irregular. It was not immediately clear how long it would continue. The area typically experiences some dust during the spring months, but the current levels are unusually high.
Does the Dust Have Anything to Do with the Lack of Rain?
North Texas has been short on rain recently. There’s been no measured rainfall in the last week, and almost none predicted for the week to come. But the two trends are separate. Since the dust is getting picked up and brought over from other areas, the lack of moisture in the ground here isn’t directly contributing.
The lack of rain, however, can exacerbate the problem by allowing more dust to become airborne. When the ground is dry, it is easier for winds to pick up dust and carry it away.
When Will it Rain Again?
It’s hard to say. While March isn’t over, North Texas is only halfway to its March precipitation average of 1.93 inches and almost no rainfall is predicted for the next week. Barnes said there’s been a lack of moisture coming up from the Gulf of Mexico, which has limited precipitation when the cold fronts move through.
The area is expecting a dry spell to continue, with no significant rainfall expected in the near future. This could lead to continued dust storms and reduced air quality.
Conclusion
The current dust storms in North Texas are a significant concern for residents and drivers. The reduced visibility and hazardous road conditions can be deadly, and it is essential to take necessary precautions when driving in such conditions. By understanding the causes and effects of the dust storms, residents can better prepare themselves and stay safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the dust storms in North Texas:
Q: What is causing the dust storms in North Texas?
A: The dust storms are caused by strong west winds that are picking up dust from New Mexico and West Texas and carrying it into North Texas.
Q: How long will the dust storms continue?
A: It is not immediately clear how long the dust storms will continue, but the area is expected to experience a dry spell with no significant rainfall expected in the near future.
Q: Are the dust storms normal for North Texas?
A: While a day of hazy skies here or there isn’t abnormal for the region, the continued pattern of substantial dust is irregular.
Q: How can I stay safe during the dust storms?
A: To stay safe during the dust storms, it is essential to reduce speed when driving, use low-beam headlights, and avoid driving during heavy dust storms. It is also crucial to stay informed about weather conditions and follow any instructions from local authorities.
