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Strong winds swept through Visalia on Monday, causing a significant dust storm that severely limited visibility and resulted in a dramatic pileup involving 20 cars in Chowchilla.
In downtown Visalia, high winds and rain turned Main Street into a scene of swirling debris, with visibility dropping to as low as 100 feet at times as gusts reached nearly 20 mph.
Notably, a large pine tree was uprooted on Whispering Pines Court, located east of Giddings Street. Fortunately, no injuries were reported from this incident.
The National Weather Service office in Hanford issued a warning just after 2 p.m. on Monday, indicating that visibility would be nearly nonexistent in various areas.
Local news outlet ABC 30 reported that the dust storm contributed to a 20-car crash that resulted in minor injuries to several drivers. Officials confirmed that all lanes on the westbound side of Highway 152 were closed following the incident.
Shortly after the warning, the National Weather Service sent out an emergency alert around 2:12 p.m. PT, as noted by Fox 26.
Amid the adverse weather conditions, merchants and pedestrians worked to secure windblown items along Locust Street as gusts and rain continued to batter downtown Visalia.
Video captures intense dust storm
Videos circulating online illustrate the dust storm’s intensity, showcasing the powerful winds that lifted dirt and debris throughout downtown Visalia, alongside footage capturing the moment the tree fell.
What should I do in a dust storm if I am driving?
Dust storms can occur swiftly, especially in desert regions as loose dust is picked up by strong winds. Such events are common across the southwestern United States, including areas from California to Arizona. To ensure safety during these conditions, the National Weather Service offers safety tips:
If you notice dense dust approaching or crossing a roadway, it is advisable to pull your vehicle as far off the road as possible. Once stopped, turn off your lights, set the emergency brake, and remove your foot from the brake pedal to prevent your tail lights from illuminating.
If turning off the roadway is not possible, proceed at a cautious speed suitable for limited visibility, activate your lights, and use your horn periodically. Use the painted centerline to assist in navigating the road and look for a safe area to pull off.
It is critical to never stop on the traveled portion of the roadway during dust storms.
Source
www.yahoo.com