Massive walls of dust and debris, known as haboobs, often sweep across the Southwest U.S., creating awe-inspiring yet dangerous conditions, especially for motorists caught in their path. These storms can reach thousands of feet high, stretch for miles, and move at speeds of 60 mph (97 kph) or more.
How Haboobs Form
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According to the National Weather Service (NWS), haboobs are triggered by thunderstorm downdrafts that hit the ground at 50–80 mph (80–129 kph) and spread outward. These winds stir up loose dust and dirt from arid regions and farmlands, creating enormous walls of debris ahead of the storm.
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If thunderstorms continue developing, the haboob can grow and travel up to 100 miles.
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A prominent dust corridor exists between Phoenix and Tucson, where these storms are most common.
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Haboobs also occur in parts of Nevada, New Mexico, and Texas.
Are Haboobs Becoming More Frequent?
Scientists link climate change to more intense monsoons in the Southwest since the 1970s, while longer droughts and expanding arid areas increase dust availability. However, experts say predicting frequency changes is complex, as land use and specific storm conditions play a major role.
On average, the Phoenix area experiences one to three major dust storms per year, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Staying Safe During a Haboob
The NWS issues dust storm warnings when visibility may drop below a quarter mile. These storms can form suddenly, making driving extremely hazardous. Safety tips include:
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Pull over as far as possible from traffic.
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Turn off headlights and taillights to avoid collisions.
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Stay inside your vehicle until visibility improves.
Experts warn that drivers often follow tail lights in zero-visibility conditions, leading to massive pileups on highways.
