A high wind warning is in place in Montana, Wyoming, Texas and New Mexico as meteorologists warned motorists of strong winds that could exceed 39 mph, comparable to a tropical storm.
Why It Matters
Strong winds can make driving difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles such as trucks. In some wind-prone areas, winds can blow so strongly that they tip over vehicles. At times, officials might close roads because of the wind.
Tropical storms boast wind speeds of 39 mph to 73 mph. Winds 74 mph and stronger are associated with hurricanes. Although the ongoing winds are in no part related to a tropical storm, their speeds are comparable to the strength of one.
What To Know
High winds are impacting parts of Montana, Wyoming, New Mexico and Texas.
In Montana and Wyoming, a high-wind warning is in place until Friday morning. In most cases, southwest winds were blowing between 40 and 60 mph. However, some gusts could reach 80 mph or stronger, making them comparable to a Category 1 hurricane.
The strongest winds in Texas could reach up to 85 mph. That warning, issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Midland office, stretches into New Mexico and will remain in place until Friday night.
What People Are Saying
NWS meteorologist Michael Charnick told Newsweek: "Wyoming can see winds as strong as 90 mph along the Interstate 80 corridor."
NWS meteorologist Rob Cox previously told Newsweek: "You definitely can see trucks get blown over, or lightweight trailers. They completely blow over."
NWS Cheyenne, Wyoming: "Strong cross winds will be
hazardous to light weight or high-profile vehicles, including campers and tractor-trailers."
NWS Midland: "Travel will be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles like campers, vans and tractor-trailers. Severe turbulence near the mountains will be hazardous for low-flying light aircraft. Aviation interests may experience localized but extreme turbulence, or strong downward airflows if flying in the near the Guadalupe Mountains.
"Winds will be particularly hazardous at higher elevations where the strongest winds are likely to occur. Be especially careful driving in these mountainous areas. People driving high-profile vehicles should strongly consider postponing travel in these areas until the winds subside. Delay travel through Guadalupe Pass or find another route, if possible."
What Happens Next
The warnings in Montana and Wyoming will expire by late Friday morning. In Texas and New Mexico, the winds will die down by Friday night. This weekend, an arctic blast will descend across the United States, bringing dangerously cold wind chill.
English (US) ·