New Mexico hit by massive dust storm

Monster Dust Storm Sweeps New Mexico: 'Largest' Haboob On Record

A massive dust storm, known as a "haboob," swept through New Mexico and northern Mexico on Wednesday, carving a 200-mile path in seconds. Scientists expressed surprise at the unprecedented size of the haboob, with some calling it the "largest" on record. The phenomenon was caused by winds pushing forward from a major thunderstorm in central New Mexico, an area recently ravaged by wildfires. The storm's impact extended to Arizona, with hazy skies reported in Phoenix.

"Largest haboob I've observed in 20 years or perhaps longer...Extends hundreds of kilometers from central New Mexico well into Chihuahua."
- Tom Gill, Professor, University of Texas at El Paso

The event created hazardous conditions, with low visibility and strong gusts of wind. A multi-car pileup on Interstate 25 sent 18 people to the hospital. Haboobs are characterized by dusty and sandy walls that can reach heights of 10,000 feet and last for extended periods. The term "haboob" originates from the Arabic word "habb," meaning "to blow." They are typically observed in the Middle East, Arabian Peninsula, Sahara Desert, Australia, and the US Southwest.

Many shared stunning visuals and reactions on social media, with climate scientist Daniel Swain echoing the sentiment that this was among the largest haboobs ever witnessed in the Southwest.

The rare and powerful weather event highlighted the extreme conditions facing New Mexico and the surrounding regions, with the aftermath of wildfires and the potential for flash floods adding to the complexities of the situation.

Sources:

• Washington Post
• National Weather Service
• NOAA
• American Meteorological Society
• Tom Gill, University of Texas at El Paso
• US Stormwatch
• CIRA CSU