What the dust? Strong winds and blowing dust impact the Big Country

ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – It’s almost spring, and breezy conditions are back in the forecast. But as the Big Country saw some intense days of wind, locals may wonder, is this normal? You’re correct if you feel there is something unusual about the winds!

Many conditions have been impacting the Big Country. Let’s talk about them.

Last summer, a transition from El Niño to La Niña occurred. The region initially experienced a phase of El Niño Southern Oscillation Neutral (ENSO), but as spring approached, it fully entered the La Niña phase. This shift resulted in warm and dry conditions taking hold. The effects of these dry conditions are evident, especially following the recent dust storm and the subsequent lack of rain.

So, with these dusty conditions, things become drier, creating the ability for dust to be stirred up by gusty winds. But where are the gusty winds coming from? Well, most of our weather systems come from the West and off the Rocky Mountains; these systems create a tight pressure gradient, which is defined as the change in pressure over a distance. When the distance between the gradients is small, we see gusty winds because of the significant change in the short space. This is similar to when a high-pressure system moves over our area, and gusty winds and hot temperatures enter the forecast.

Unfortunately, there is more blowing dust in the forecast, and it will likely pop in and out as the spring season progresses. Regardless of what the weather is like, American Electric Power (AEP) crews are always on standby to resolve power outages that may be caused by wind. Strong wind gusts have the power to knock down tree limbs and compromise electrical facilities.

AEP Abilene Area External Affairs Manager Luke Roberson shares information about severe weather conditions. Crews are always prepared with plans set in place days in advance.

“When we prepare for a wind event, it’s a multi-day process for us to prepare. We do request additional resources. We remain positioned to respond to potential power outages caused by the high winds,” explained Roberson.

While the winds may feel stronger this spring season, Roberson shares that crews are used to working in any weather condition, especially hurricanes.

“I wouldn’t say it’s unusual for employees. We are first responders and crews traveling also assist with hurricanes. We’re not unfamiliar with high winds, especially when there’s a hurricane event. Those guys are almost the same guys who are going down to help restore,” said Roberson.

Roberson added that if you see an energized downed power line, call your power company and dial 9-1-1. Stay as far away as possible, and do not touch anything that is touching the line.

Report power outages here: AEP Texas