Dust blows into parts of the Valley, affecting road visibility

PHOENIX — Dust was blowing across parts of the Valley on Thursday afternoon and affecting visibility for motorists making their way home.

The dust started south of the metro Phoenix area around 3:30 p.m. and was blowing northwest of the city of Maricopa along State Route 347, according to the National Weather Service for Phoenix.

Around half an hour later, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) said the dust was moving up Interstate 10 and into Chandler.

A dusty advisory was issued by NWS Phoenix for the south metro Phoenix area not long after and continued to move north affecting Scottsdale and Peoria.

The weather authority warned that visibility would be reduced down to three to four miles.

What should motorists do when dust blankets Valley roads?

Blowing dust can be a safety hazard for Arizonans on the road, but ADOT recommends motorists follow its Pull Aside, Stay Alive safety tips.

The tips advise drivers to slow down and pull safely off the paved portion of the roadway, making sure not to stop in travel lanes or on the shoulder.

Next put your emergency brake on and turn off all vehicle so another motorist does not become confused and crash into you.

Finally, keep your seatbelt fastened and wait until the storm ends.

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