Blowing Dust, High Fire Danger for Southwest

Mar 6, 2012; 9:09 AM ET

Strong winds will kick-up gusts and sand across the Southwest (Photos.com image)

With a Pacific storm barreling southward towards southern Nevada and California today, strong and gusty southwesterly winds will be widespread ahead of this system across the Southwest.

While brief, but sudden, big changes are in store for California today, areas of blowing dust will accompany the strong winds.

Strong winds will develop across the region, especially across Arizona and western New Mexico.

Winds will peak during the afternoon and will continue to blow into the evening hours. Sustained winds of 20-30 mph with gusts as high as 60 mph are possible across open areas.

Locally strong winds could allow loose items not properly secured to drift away, down tree limbs and power lines.

At this time, vegetative fuels in these regions are very dry. When you combine this with somewhat drier air spreading into the region, low humidity, strong winds and the risk for dangerous fire weather conditions are expected during the afternoon and evening hours.

Any fires that do develop will likely spread rather quickly due to the dry conditions.

Not only will strong crosswinds create hazardous conditions on the highways today, but travelers will also be affected by blowing dust picked up by the strong winds. Interstates that may be affected include I-8, I-10, I-15, I-25, I-27 and I-40.

The blowing dust will cause visibilities to fall below 1 mile at times. Unfortunately, the visibility may be worst during the evening rush hour, when winds are typically at their strongest.

Motorists are advised to take their time on the roadways today, especially if they find themselves driving through poor visibilities.

Operators of high-profile vehicles should be especially aware of changing weather conditions and travel at reduced speeds.

Those who are sensitive to poor air quality, especially young children, elderly adults and those with Asthma, should avoid physical activity outdoors today.

Less wind is expected during Wednesday from California to western New Mexico along with a sharp fall in temperatures as the storm system passes through the region.

A few areas across the region will have some showers with higher elevations receiving some snow.

Blowing Dust, High Fire Danger for Southwest