Phoenix-area dust storm warning in effect, multiple highways impacted

PHOENIX — A dust storm warning issued Sunday night encompassed a large portion of Maricopa County and three highways, according to the National Weather Service.

The dust storm warning was set to be in effect until 8:30 p.m. and included Phoenix, Avondale, Mesa and Chandler along with Interstates 10, 17 and 8.

Impacted areas are expected to have near zero visibility.

Around 6 p.m., a crash along with a dust storm closed I-10 westbound near Picacho Peak at milepost 222, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.

All westbound traffic was forced to exit I-10 at Tangerine Road.

The right lane reopened at 7:14 p.m. while the left lanes remained closed, ADOT said.

A significant weather advisory — including 50 mph winds and possible lightning — was also in effect for Maricopa County until 7 p.m.

Significant Weather Advisory for Maricopa County until 700 PM MST. https://t.co/LkJW4hXIrF #azwx #cawx pic.twitter.com/OgTyfgxnOp

— NWS Phoenix (@NWSPhoenix) August 17, 2020

Earlier on Sunday, weather advisories had also been issued for the North Valley and a portion of Pinal County.

West of Phoenix, a significant weather advisory for wind and possible lightning was also in effect until 7 p.m.

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