Dust Storm — De Witt, Illinois

2025-03-28 · De Witt, Illinois

Event narrative

The county sheriff reported near zero visibility due to blowing dust. Online traffic maps suggested substantial slowdowns on Illinois Route 48 between Weldon and Clinton Lake, likely due to visibility impacts.

Wider weather episode

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.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1241002. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.