The Chihuahua State Civil Protection Coordination issued a Preventive Notice due to the presence of intense dust storms affecting various stretches of roads in the north of the state. These conditions have forced the total and partial closure of some main roads, as well as the implementation of surveillance and assistance operations by the National Guard and municipal authorities.
According to the information provided by the Coordination, at least five stretches of roads were closed today. Personnel from the National Guard and Civil Protection are making preventive announcements in the area to avoid accidents.
Roads closed:
-Janos to Casas Grandes (total closure)
-Ahumada to Ciudad Juárez (total closure)
-Ascensión to Ahumada (total closure)
-Ascensión to Janos (total closure)
-Sueco to Janos (partial closures in both directions as a precaution)
Additionally, a traffic accident was reported at kilometer 241 of the Juárez – Ascensión highway, which further aggravates the situation in that area. Civil Protection urges drivers to take extreme precautions, reduce speed, turn on lights and, if possible, avoid traveling on these routes until visibility conditions improve.
Dust storms are a common phenomenon in the Chihuahua region, especially during the season of strong winds. However, on this occasion, the density of the dust and the strength of the gusts have reached levels that seriously compromise road safety. Visibility in some stretches is practically zero, which has caused several vehicle incidents and forced the National Guard to carry out preventive traffic cuts.
Elements of the National Guard, in coordination with the municipal and state Civil Protection departments, maintain permanent surveillance in the affected areas. Patrols and aid stations have been deployed to provide information and support to stranded motorists.
Cold temperatures gave way to pleasant weather this morning
Civil Protection reiterates to citizens that before going out on the road, they should check the weather conditions and updated road reports. If it is necessary to circulate through the affected areas, it is recommended to:
-Drive with extreme caution
-Turn on flashing and dipped headlights
-Keep a safe distance between vehicles
-Avoid stopping on the asphalt
-Stay alert to the instructions of authorities
Source: oem
