9OYS Weather

ADOT offers driving tips amid adverse weather conditions

Reduced visibility, possible dust storms may slow traffic

CREATED Sep. 6, 2012

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Web Producer: Mekita Rivas 

PHOENIX - The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) warns drivers to beware of blowing dust that may affect visibility for drivers traveling in southeast Arizona. The National Weather Service has issued a dust storm warning for northwest and north central Pinal County until 6 p.m. 

Highways including Interstate 10 (between Casa Grande and Phoenix) and State Route 347 (near Maricopa) could be affected by dusty conditions. 

In a news release, ADOT and the Arizona Department of Public Safety recommend the following driving tips when encountering a low-visibility dust storm: 

  • Avoid driving into or through a dust storm.
  • Do not wait until  poor visibility makes it difficult to safely pull off the roadway - do it as soon as possible. Completely exit the highway if you can.
  • If you encounter a dust storm, check traffic immediately around your vehicle (front, back and to the side) and begin slowing down.
  • Do not stop in a travel lane or in the emergency lane; look for a safe place to pull completely off the paved portion of the roadway.
  • Stop the vehicle in a position ensuring it is a safe distance from the main roadway and away from where other vehicles may travel.
  • Turn off all vehicle lights, including your emergency flashers.
  • Set your emergency brake and take your foot off the brake.
  • Stay in the vehicle with your seatbelts buckled and wait for the storm to pass.
  • Drivers of high-profile vehicles should be especially aware of changing weather conditions and travel at reduced speeds.
  • A driver’s alertness and safe driving ability is still the number one factor to prevent crashes. 

Drivers can monitor travel conditions by calling 5-1-1 within Arizona or at www.az511.gov.