Dust Storm — Upper Columbia Basin, Washington

2021-03-28 · Upper Columbia Basin, Washington

Event narrative

The Department of Transportation closed an approximate 30 mile stretch of Interstate 90 in Adams County due to dangerous, life threatening travel conditions. There was near zero visibility from blowing dust across the interstate. Wind gusts reached 45 to 55 mph at nearby RAWS and COOP stations.

Wider weather episode

A passing cold front produced strong winds in eastern Washington on March 28th. Winds reached gusts of 50-65 mph. These powerful winds produced blowing dust in the dry Columbia Basin and damage due to downed trees in much of far eastern Washington. Blowing dust had significant impact on travel creating poor visibility on major interstates and highways. The strongest winds and damage occurred in the late afternoon and early evening which created hazardous roadways for the evening commute.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 948950. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.