Road Safety During A Haboob

5/20/2021 (Permalink)

Know what to do if you find yourself in a haboob or dust storm while driving.

You’ve seen the images and videos on Phoenix news stations and social media of large walls of dust moving across the Valley, you’ve seen the aftermath of dusty vehicles, downed trees from high winds, you may have even had to pull over while driving or run inside to avoid getting sandblasted. These large-scale dust storms, otherwise known as haboobs, go hand in hand with monsoon season.

Road Safety

Arizona’s monsoon season typically occurs from June to September when temperatures are at its highest. When thunderstorms are happening, they send down microbursts which spread out and create dust storms or haboobs. It’s important to know what to do in case you find yourself trapped in a haboob while you are out driving.

1. Slow down and safely pull off the road or into a nearby parking lot if possible.
2. Turn off your headlights. Some people think they should put on their hazard lights but it is advised NOT to do so. The reason is because when there’s a dust storm or haboob, visibility is extremely low. If you are pulled over and have your lights on, you don’t want to confuse a car that is behind you and cause them to potentially run into you.
3. Take your foot off the brake pedal and put the vehicle in park. Remain in your vehicle until the storm passes.