High Winds and Dust Storms Expected in Borderland This Weekend

EL PASO, Texas (AP) — The KFOX14 Severe Weather Team has issued multiple weather advisories for Friday, predicting high winds and dust storms across the Borderland region.

A Wind Advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. for El Paso and Dona Ana County as a storm system passes to the north. Meteorologists expect wind speeds to increase significantly, potentially reaching gusts of over 40 mph.

In conjunction with the wind advisory, a Blowing Dust Advisory has also been issued, warning residents that visibility could drop below one mile in some areas. “With these strong winds, very dry conditions, and loose soil, we are likely to see reduced visibility and hazardous driving conditions,” said meteorologist Maria Gonzalez.

As the storm system moves through the Rocky Mountains and continues east, wind speeds are expected to taper off by Saturday, although high dust levels may persist into the day. Despite this, conditions should improve by Easter Sunday, with lighter winds and clearer skies anticipated.

In Memphis, Tennessee, a comparable weather pattern is set to unfold with a Wind Advisory from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday. In northeast Arkansas and the Missouri Bootheel, forecasts predict sustained winds exceeding 25 mph and gusts upwards of 40 mph.

The Memphis area has experienced warm weather recently, with high temperatures expected to reach the low 80s over the next few days. However, this will change as a storm system approaches, potentially bringing severe storms Sunday afternoon into Monday.

“The storms are forecasted to be more intense on Sunday evening, primarily west of the Mississippi River,” said Laura Evans, chief meteorologist at WMC. “Damaging winds and heavy rains are the main threats, which could exacerbate current river flooding.”

Residents are urged to take precautions this weekend, especially those in areas prone to flooding. “Protecting your property, especially against high winds and flash floods, should be a priority as these weather conditions develop,” said Evans.

As meteorologists continue to monitor the systems developing across the region, residents are encouraged to stay tuned for updates through local news and weather stations.