Dust storms more blinding than fog

Drought, high winds and tilled fields are all it takes for a dust storm, also called a haboob, on the plains.

“Dust storms are worse than fog,”

Shawn Rossi, a meteorologist with the Hastings Weather Bureau, said.

“Do not drive into a dust storm. Pull off the road as far as you can. Stop! Turn off your lights. Take your foot off the brakes or you will probably be rear-ended,” he continued. “This driving proceedure had cut accidents about in half in Oklahoma this past year.”

The advice was part of a weather spotter training session at the Superior Public Safety Building, Monday evening. About 20...