Dust Storm/High Wind Warning Posted for Southeast Colorado

The National Weather Service in Pueblo has posted a Dust Storm Warning and a High Wind Warning until 7pm this evening, April 29, 2014. 

This affects Crowley, Otero, Kiowa, Bent, Prowers, Baca and Eastern Las Animas Counties. 

A wrap-around north flow around a deep storm system over the upper Midwest will continue to produce high winds and widespread blowing dust through early this evening.  Winds are northerly from 30 to 40 mph with busts in excess of 60 mph. 

People planning travel across the southeast plains of Colorado should be prepared for strong winds causing hazardous driving conditions.  Strong cross winds will be likely along east-west highways, including highways 50 and 96.  Areas of blowing dust will create rapid changes in visibility with visibility below one quarter mile at times.  

A Dust Storm Warning means severely limited visibilities are expected with blowing dust.  Travel could become extremely dangerous.  Persons with respiratory problems should make preparations to stay indoors until the storm passes.   

A High Wind Warning means a hazardous high wind event is expected or occurring. Sustained wind speeds of at least 40mph or gusts of 58mph or more can lead to property damage.