Dust Storm — Thomas, Kansas

2014-01-16 · Thomas, Kansas

Event narrative

A small stretch of highway 83 just west of Rexford, Kansas in Thomas county experienced severe visibility reductions in blowing dirt early in the afternoon. Three separate accidents occurred around 1400 CST, involving a total of seven semi trailers and eight passenger vehicles. Multiple injuries and fatalities were reported by law enforcement.

Wider weather episode

Strong winds and lack of recent rainfall resulted in a widespread blowing dust event from late morning through mid-afternoon. Local areas experienced sharp reductions in visibilities near open fields. Three accidents, including a multiple fatality accident, occurred in extreme northeast Thomas county near Rexford.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 498453. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.