Severe Wind and Dust Storms Hit Texas as Mardi Gras Celebrations Loom
EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — A hazardous weather pattern is unfolding across the southern High Plains, prompting Weather Warn advisories for strong winds and blowing dust on March 4, 2025. Winds are expected to gust over 50 mph in regions such as El Paso and Amarillo, significantly reducing visibility and heightening travel risks.
The CBS4Warn Weather Team indicated that gusts could reach 30-40 mph Monday night, with an increase to 35-45 mph on Tuesday from the west and northwest. “We urge residents to stay indoors if possible and exercise extreme caution if travel is necessary due to the anticipated conditions,” said meteorologist Kaytlyn Stephens.
With temperatures expected to drop by 10-15 degrees behind this weather system, highs will hover in the mid-60s on Tuesday. Blowing dust may be less severe compared to Monday, according to updates, but local conditions could still pose threats for those outdoors.
Total wind speeds are anticipated to sustain high rates, with the potential for blowing dust causing low visibility, particularly along highways perpendicular to the wind direction. Motorists should be vigilant, as recent reports noted multiple accidents in eastern New Mexico due to these weather conditions, with visibility dropping near zero in some areas.
In Amarillo, the forecast is similarly grim. “The potential for dangerous wind gusts up to 75 mph may contribute to hazardous travel conditions, especially for high-profile vehicles,” said Corbin Voges of KVII. The region’s infrastructure might face difficulties due to these winds, which could uproot trees and disrupt power lines.
Meanwhile, in Louisiana, the storm’s timing coincides with the popular Mardi Gras celebrations, leading to adjustments in parade schedules. Officials in Jefferson Parish have canceled parades due to safety concerns over wind and storms that could reach up to 60 mph. “Public safety will always be number one,” stated parish president Cynthia Lee Sheng.
The National Weather Service has extended their warnings indicating critical fire weather conditions across parts of the region. Governor Greg Abbott has mobilized state emergency teams to address the dual challenges of wildfire risks and the severe storms threatening the southern U.S.
In addition to dust storms, the substantial storm system is capable of producing severe thunderstorms and even tornadic activity. According to the Storm Prediction Center, areas stretching from east Texas to Alabama are under heightened alerts.
Authorities are vigilant; meteorologists have reported that the evolving conditions warrant close monitoring. Citizens are advised to stay informed about the latest updates and prepare for possible rapid changes in weather, especially as storms and winds continue into the week.
As Weather Service personnel brace for the coming storm, they remind residents to remain vigilant and cautious. The conditions are expected to persist, with potential for more storms impacting Texas into Saturday of the coming week.
