Dust Storm — Menard, Illinois

2025-03-28 · Menard, Illinois

Event narrative

Emergency managers reported blowing dust reducing visibility below one quarter mile along IL-123 south of Tallula.

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 1241003. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.