The National Weather Service in Lincoln is collaborating with the University of Illinois Extension to enhance awareness of when dust storms may pose a risk in central Illinois.
Dust storms have been on the rise in just the last two to three years in Illinois - highlighted by a deadly pileup on Interstate 55, south of Springfield in 20223. Ed Shimon with the National Weather Service explains that he reached out to Reagan Tibbs, Commercial Ag Educator with the Extension, to get a better idea of field conditions. He believes this information could be the missing piece for predicting dust storms.
Shimon indicates they are specifically looking to learn more about soil conditions. While they can predict things like high heat and wind, field conditions can vary depending on how recently it has rained or how much watering the fields are receiving. Dry soil can very easily be picked up by the wind, causing dangerous dust storms.
The growing number of widespread dust events lead Shimon to believe this is due to changes in soil type as well as a practice called drain tiling, which allows soil to dry out quicker than it ever has.
When dust storms do appear in the area, it's important to stay indoors, close windows and doors, and especially stay off the roads during low visibility conditions.
