Strong winds in Visalia created a dust storm Monday that limited visibility, and caused a 20-car pileup in Chowchilla.
Leaves and other debris drifted down Main Street in Visalia as strong winds and rain swept through the city on Monday. Visibility briefly dropped to 100 feet in some areas as winds gusted to about 20 MPH.
Strong winds uprooted a large pine tree on Whispering Pines Court east of Giddings Street in Visalia on Monday. No injuries were reported.
The National Weather Service’s Hanford office issued a dust storm warning around 2:00 a.m. Monday, warning that the area will see near-freezing temperatures.
Local news station ABC 30 reported that the dust caused a 20-vehicle pileup and minor injuries to other drivers. Police told the station that all westbound lanes of Highway 152 are closed due to a major accident.
The National Weather Service issued an emergency alert for the dust storm around 2:12 pm PT, according to local news station Fox 26.
The video captures a massive dust storm
Video of the dust storm shows strong winds moving dirt and debris in downtown Visalia and the moment the tree fell.
What should I do in a dust storm when driving?
Dust storms are common occurrences in desert areas as strong winds pick up the dust. Across the southwest from California to Arizona these events can happen in a matter of seconds. The National Weather Service offers tips on how to stay safe:
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If thick dust appears to be blowing or approaching the road, pull your vehicle off the pavement as far as possible, stop, turn off the lights, set the emergency brake, take your foot off the brake pedal to make sure the lights are off. illuminated.
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Do not enter a dusty area if you can avoid it.
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If you can’t pull off the road, drive at a reasonable speed to be seen, flash your lights and honk occasionally. Use the painted center line to help guide you. Look for a safe place to pull off the road.
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Never stop on the road you have traveled.
Visalia Times-Delta photographer Ron Holman contributed to this report.
Fernando Cervantes Jr. is USA TODAY’s trending news reporter. Reach him at fernando.cervantes@gannett.com and follow him at X @fern_cerv_.
This article appeared in USA TODAY: Watch powerful storm move through central California near Fresno
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