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Dust advisory issued
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
NWS Spokane issued a blowing dust advisory for Moses Lake and Waterville Plateau until 5 p.m. Saturday. Dust storms threaten travel safety with near-zero visibility in affected areas.
Background
Dust advisories and warnings are issued when strong winds pick up loose soil, creating dust storms that reduce visibility and can be hazardous for drivers. These events are common in arid regions like central Washington and Arizona, especially during monsoon or windy conditions.
How it unfolded
- Aug 23, 2026NWS Tucson issued a dust storm warning for Pima County, with a wall of dust moving west at 10 mph and winds over 50 mph.
- Aug 24, 2026A dust storm hit the Phoenix Valley, with warnings for near-zero visibility and strong winds, amid an extreme heat warning.
- Aug 27, 2026NWS Tucson issued multiple dust storm warnings for Pima County, with bands of blowing dust moving northwest.
- Aug 29, 2026NWS Spokane issued a blowing dust advisory for Moses Lake and Waterville Plateau, effective until 5 p.m. Saturday.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- NWS warns motorists: 'PULL ASIDE STAY ALIVE!' and advises not to drive into dust storms.