Weather 85922, Blue

Effective:

2025-06-30T08:28:00-07:00

Expires:

2025-06-30T20:15:00-07:00

Certainty:

Likely

Event:

Blowing Dust Advisory

Type:

Alert

Severity:

Moderate

Urgency:

Expected

Areas:

Upper Gila River and Aravaipa Valleys including Clifton/Safford

* WHAT...Dangerously hot conditions with temperatures 108 to 112 in the Gila River Valley. Isolated thunderstorms with strong thunderstorm outflow wind gusts to 45-50 mph will result in blowing dust lowering visibility between one-quarter and one mile at times. The threat for blowing dust will persist into the evening as stronger sustained east-to-southeast winds 20-30 mph move into the area from the east. * WHERE...Upper Gila River Valley. * WHEN...For the Extreme Heat Warning, until 8 PM MST this evening. For the Blowing Dust Advisory, from 1 PM this afternoon to 10 PM MST this evening. * IMPACTS...Heat related illnesses increase significantly during extreme heat events. Blowing dust can restrict visibilities below a mile posing a significant hazard to motorists. In addition, strong and gusty winds will likely suspend dust into the air that people and animals breathe. Individuals with heart disease and respiratory sensitivities may want to reduce their level of exertion to limit the dust they breathe into their lungs, especially if they are near dust prone locations. Those most at risk may feel better if they avoid outside exercise today, keeping windows and doors closed to help reduce exposure.

Instruction: Persons with respiratory problems should make preparations to stay indoors until the storm passes. Be ready for a sudden drop in visibility to near zero. If you encounter blowing dust or blowing sand on the roadway or see it approaching, pull off the road as far as possible and put your vehicle in park. Turn the lights all the way off and keep foot off the brake pedal. Remember, 'Pull Aside, Stay Alive'. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1. Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.