Severe Winds and Total Lunar Eclipse Set to Grip El Paso

EL PASO, Texas — Residents in El Paso are preparing for a weather event that combines severe wind warnings with a spectacular total lunar eclipse tonight. The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning from 6 p.m. Thursday until noon Friday, as wind gusts could reach as high as 65 miles per hour.

As the afternoon progresses, winds are expected to pick up significantly, reaching speeds of 55 to 60 mph by dinner time. “There is a significant drop in temperature associated with these high winds, which could lead to dangerous wind chill conditions, making it feel below freezing,” said a spokesperson from the National Weather Service.

In addition to the wind warnings, a blowing dust advisory will be effective from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, making driving conditions hazardous. Residents are urged to stay indoors if possible and prepare for potential power outages.

Alongside the severe weather, skywatchers in the Borderland will experience a rare astronomical event as a total lunar eclipse takes place. The eclipse will begin at 12:26 a.m. MDT and end at 1:31 a.m. MDT, offering a unique opportunity to witness the moon turn a reddish hue, commonly referred to as a “blood moon.” This phenomenon occurs when the Earth passes directly between the sun and the moon.

Christian Jaquez, a physics student and president of the astronomy club at the University of Texas at El Paso, noted that the reddish color is a result of light passing through the Earth’s atmosphere during the eclipse. “It’s a beautiful sight, and the city of El Paso is in the direct path of totality,” Jaquez said.

The UTEP Astronomy Club is hosting a public observation event at the psychology amphitheater on campus from 9 p.m. to midnight. Attendees are encouraged to dress warmly due to dropping temperatures. Jaquez emphasized the importance of viewing the eclipse safely with telescopes provided at the event.

As the weather and astronomical conditions collide, residents are reminded to stay aware of local advisories and enjoy the evening’s celestial show safely. For those unable to attend the observation event, the eclipse can be viewed from anywhere in the city.