Dust Storm Unleashes in Oklahoma Panhandle: Zero Visibility, Dangerous Travel Possible

The latest weather forecast reported that motorists and commuters on US Highway 54 in Oklahoma Panhandle experienced a powerful dust storm.

Vehicle pileups and slower commutes emerged due to strong winds in the Oklahoma Panhandle as parts of the South were alerted for possible severe thunderstorms and isolated tornadoes.

According to AccuWeather's latest weather report, a chain-reaction crash occurred on US Highway 54 near Oklahoma Panhandle as troublesome dust storms resulted in poor road visibility in Goodwell and Amarillo, Texas.

Road warnings were issued in the area due to car collisions and accidents. Motorists were advised to consider the weather conditions before traveling.

Meanwhile, the National Weather Service's (NWS) latest advisory warned of possible severe thunderstorms in parts of the South, including Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Tennessee Valley.

The challenging weather conditions can unleash isolated tornadoes, damaging winds and flooding rainfall.

Meanwhile, a winter storm advisory has been present in Ohio Valley, New England, and Northeast and Northeastern New York due to possible heavy snow and freezing rain.

Motorists and commuters under the winter storm should prepare for hazardous travel this week.

Dust storm safety tips and health risks

Dust storm on October 6, 2022, in Calexico, California. Dust Storm Unleashes in Oklahoma Panhandle: Zero Visibility, Dangerous Travel Possible

(Photo : by ALLISON DINNER/AFP via Getty Image)
Dust storm on October 6, 2022, in Calexico, California. Dust Storm Unleashes in Oklahoma Panhandle: Zero Visibility, Dangerous Travel Possible

Same with freezing fog, dust storms can result in dangerous travel conditions. The challenging weather can lead to slower commutes and travel disruptions.

In addition, dust storms can help reduce air quality. Prolonged exposure to dust storms can cause health risks, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the emergence of dust storms can worsen lung diease or asthma.

Also Read: Tornado Watch Issued in Parts of Northern Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee Due to Severe Weather Conditions

The recent news added that the dust storms affected motorists and motorists in the Oklahoma Panhandle.

Motorists and commuters could experience road difficulty due to dust storms. Here are essential reminders for travelers.

Know the weather and road conditions

Motorists traveling this week will face the road challenges of dust storms and winter storms. It is advisable to check the weather conditions before leaving.

There is a possibility of road closures due to severe weather conditions.

In addition, people with scheduled flights must monitor their flight details for possible flight delays or cancellations.

Staying safe while on the road

Although it is best to avoid traveling this week, motorists should be extra careful while on the road. Maintaining a following distance is recommendable due to the possibility of road collisions

In addition, slow driving is essential.