Dust Storm in Morgan, Illinois

Emergency managers and law enforcement reported blowing dust reducing visibility below one quarter mile across the county. The Illinois State Police closed I-72 between mile marker 68 and 76 due to low visibility in the blowing dust.

An approaching surface low pressure system located over eastern South Dakota resulted in strong south-southwesterly wind gusts across central Illinois. Peak gusts were between 50-60 mph in many locations. The combination of strong winds and loose top soil due to increased agricultural activity at the start of growing season resulted in a few instances of blowing dust during the afternoon. The winds weakened into the evening, at which point the visibility reductions subsided.