After a controversial Formula 1 weekend in Vegas, planes and cars full of tourists and travelers were significantly delayed due to a major dust storm that kicked up.
With visibility at near zero and high-speed winds across the I-15, there was no choice but to stop traffic, causing a traffic gridlock situation and huge delays at Harry Reid International Airport.
Wind speeds up to 40-50 mph pummeled cars, leading to a hours long closure near the California-Nevada line, where travelers going home from a weekend in Sin City were left stranded until finally the wind warnings cleared up in the evening.
SF Gate spoke with Dan Berc, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service’s Las Vegas office, about what caused the storm.
After a strong low-pressure system brought record-breaking rainfall to California last week and continued to move eastward, a cold front came through behind it, producing the strong northerly winds.
But, that’s not all. KTNV reported that more than 760 flights were delayed due to strong winds at Henry Reid International Airport.
Thanksgiving traffic will cause more delays this week
These aren’t the only delays expected this week. Thanksgiving is this Thursday, and Las Vegas is one of the most popular destinations for the holiday. What can travelers expect?
The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) has created a graphic to help motorists understand when are the best times to be on and off the road. Times to avoid are Wednesday from 12-2pm, Saturday from 12-5pm, and Sundays from 9am-5pm. Plan accordingly, and Thanksgiving travel should go by without a hitch.
Were you affected by the dust storm delays? Let us know. Until then, happy travels this Thanksgiving.