Right now
Pull over. Turn off your lights.
Visibility can drop to zero in seconds. If you are driving, pull off the road as far as possible, turn off headlights, set the parking brake, and take your foot off the brake pedal.
Where you are right now
Your situation determines what you do
If you are driving
If you see a wall of dust ahead, do not drive into it. If you can, exit the highway before it reaches you, since driving into zero visibility is how chain-reaction pileups happen. If you are already caught in it, pull completely off the road. Turn off all your lights, including headlights, taillights, and hazard flashers. Set the parking brake. Take your foot off the brake pedal. Turning off your lights prevents other drivers from following your taillights and rear-ending you. Keep your seatbelt on. Wait for the storm to pass.
If you cannot pull over
Slow down. Turn on your headlights. Do not stop in the travel lane. Use the center line or road edge as a guide. Reduce speed and be prepared to stop. Do not pass other vehicles.
If you are indoors
Close all windows, doors, and vents. Turn off HVAC systems that draw outside air. Use damp towels to seal gaps under doors. If you have respiratory conditions, have your inhaler or medication accessible.
If you are outdoors
Get indoors or into a vehicle. If you cannot get to shelter, move to a position upwind of any hazard and crouch low behind a solid barrier. Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth. Protect your eyes. Flying debris and reduced visibility are the primary dangers.
After the immediate danger
What to do next
Wait for visibility to return
Dust storms usually pass within 10 to 30 minutes, though some last longer. Do not resume driving until visibility is clearly restored.
Check your vehicle
Dust can clog air filters and reduce engine performance. If your vehicle was in heavy dust, check the air filter and radiator before driving long distances.
Protect your lungs
Fine dust particles can aggravate respiratory conditions. If you were exposed, clean your nose and mouth. If you develop persistent coughing or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention.
Sources: NWS Dust Storm Safety, Ready.gov Severe Weather, Arizona Department of Transportation Pull Aside Stay Alive Campaign, CDC Dust Storm Safety. All safety claims verified against primary sources. Last reviewed August 30, 2026.
This guide is not professional emergency management advice. It is a plain-language starting point for someone in an active hazard right now.