Travelers between Tucson and Phoenix today are being warned about the potential of dust storms that can quickly cut visibility.
The Arizona Department of Transportation says motorists across southeastern Arizona also need to be careful.
A blowing dust advisory is in effect from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., according to the National Weather Service. Affected areas include Interstate 10 between Phoenix and Tucson and Cochise County. Interstate 8, used to travel to San Diego, also is included.
Gusts of up to 50 miles per hour are possible.
ADOT urges drivers to pull over as soon as dust storms move in.
Here are some tips the department offers under its βPull aside, Stay Alive campaign:
Β The following are driving tips when encountering a low-visibility Β
β’ Avoid driving into or through a dust storm. Β
β’ Do not wait until poor visibility makes it difficult to safely pull off the roadway β do it as soon as possible. Completely exit the highway if you can.
β’ Do not stop in a travel lane or in the emergency lane; look for a safe place to pull completely off the paved portion of the roadway.
β’ Turn off all vehicle lights, including your emergency flashers.
β’ Set your emergency brake and take your foot off the brake.
β’ Stay in the vehicle with your seat belts buckled and wait for the storm to pass.
Visit www.PullAsideStayAlive.org for more information on drivers tips. Go to www.az511.gov for the most current information about highway closures and restrictions statewide.
