David Harris, Transit & Rail Director | LinkedIn
Travel advisories have been issued for high winds and blowing dust in Southwest New Mexico for Thursday, March 13, and Friday, March 14, 2025. Wind speeds are expected to range from 35 to 45 mph with southwest gusts reaching 65-75 mph. The most significant impact is anticipated between 12 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Travelers are advised to monitor local forecast conditions before starting their journey and visit www.nmroads.com for current roadway information. Conditions may change quickly, with blowing dust potentially escalating into blinding dust storms as they move through remote areas.
If you must travel during this time, safety guidelines should be followed:
- Avoid driving into or through a dust storm.
- Exit the highway as soon as visibility begins to deteriorate.
- If encountering a dust storm, check traffic around your vehicle and slow down gradually.
- Pull completely off the roadway onto the right shoulder if possible.
- Stop the vehicle at a safe distance from the main roadway.
- Turn off all vehicle lights, including emergency flashers.
- Set your emergency brake and keep seat belts buckled while waiting for the storm to pass.
Drivers of high-profile vehicles should be particularly cautious of changing weather conditions and reduce speeds accordingly.
The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) will monitor roadway conditions along with local law enforcement. Updates will be available on www.nmroads.com or by calling 511.
