ODESSA, Texas — The Permian Basin is known for being quite windy. It's also known for having a lot of dust and dirt.
Combine those two together, and the results are nasty dust storms that can have quite the effect on drivers.
These dust storms can hamper visibility, which leads to drivers getting into accidents that they otherwise wouldn't have with clear skies.
The best way to deal with dust storms on the road is to not deal with them at all.
“Try to avoid traveling if you can. The more people on the road, the more dangerous it is and it's already congested here as it is," said Steve Lesueur, a corporal with the Odessa Police Department. "The main thing is just allow plenty of time to and from your destination.”
If drivers do need to hit the road and brave the elements, then the best strategy for dealing with dust storms is to ease off the gas pedal and be wary for other elements that get kicked up by the wind.
“Be mindful of loose objects flying around and things being knocked down," Lesueur said. "Also try to keep [your] hands on the steering wheel, especially for driving on those highways and highways that are higher than others, especially on an overpass where it's more likely to be windy.”
For drivers who get ambushed by a dust storm while they are on the road, there is a way to drive off the road and simply wait it out.
“Just like when it's foggy, pull off to the right and slow down," Lesueur said. "Especially if you can see it (the dust storm) in front of you and if it'll just fall off and hopefully it'll pass and it'll be clear."
Other tips include keeping your headlights on to help with low visibility.