First Alert Issued For Sunday; Damaging Winds Possible

The ABC-7 StormTRACK Weather Team has issued a First Alert for what could be a major wind storm Sunday.

A strong upper-level trough off the Pacific coastline will begin its trek toward the Southwest this weekend.

Wind gusts of 65-70 mph wind are expected along the eastern slopes, possibly up to 80 mph near the area passes. Power outages, damage to roofs, broken tree limbs, and dangerous driving and aviation conditions are possible.

Blowing dust may cause reduced visibilities of one to three miles, possibly less than a mile along Interstate 10 from Las Cruces to Deming.

There’s only a slight chance of rain and snow, but either could reduce visibilities along with the dust.

Temperatures on Sunday will only warm up to the mid-50s with lows in the 20s.

Here are a few tips from El Paso Fire Department to help prepare for the storm:

Conduct a home hazard hunt and perimeter search, in which you inspect your home for items that can move, fall, break or cause a fire. Make trees more wind resistant by removing diseased and damaged limbs. Move or secure lawn furniture, outdoor decorations or ornaments, trash cans, hanging plants and anything else that can be picked up by wind and become a projectile. Slow down when driving and have enough distance with the car in front of you due to blowing dust-lowering visibility. Do not attempt to remove any electrical wires that fall on your homes and vehicles; call 911 immediately.

Stay up to date the with StormTRACK Weather Team as this system continues to develop.