Dangers of Dust Storms

By: Kris LeSueur   |   29 May 2017
Dust storms (also known as sand storms or Haboobs) are a regular experience in Arizona between May and September, with the most severe of these storms coming in the late summer months.

These storms create dangerous and potentially deadly driving conditions due to a reduction in visibility.  The greater Phoenix area is known for being the only place in the U.S to experience the "Haboob" a powerful dust storm that travels across the desert at speeds up to 60 miles per hour!

Because of this natural phenomena, drivers need to be super careful so they dont find themselves impacting trees, lamp posts, and of course other vehicles or pedestrians.
 
Fortunately, most mobile phone providers offer an early warning system that notifies drivers of incoming dust storms.  If you can avoid driving in one, then you definitely should.  Why risk it?

The best thing you can do if you encounter these storms while driving is to apply common sense. Reduce your speed, and pull over to the emergency lane, then turn on your hazard lights so that other drivers dont think you are in a moving lane.  Close your windows and vents and wait until the storm has passed and you have at least 500 feet of visibility, then carefully re-join the flow of traffic and be sure to use your turn signals.
 
Its also smart to check your vehicles air filter after such events.  These filters can become clogged from the dense dust of these storms and clogged filters can lead to engine damage.  We have a full service department here at LeSueur Car Company, so feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions or vehicle maintenance needs.

Drive safe!

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