Dust storm spreads over New Mexico

A massive dust storm, known as a “haboob,” swept through New Mexico and northern Mexico, carving a 200-mile path and causing dangerously low visibility and multiple car crashes, injuring at least 18 people.

Satellite images captured the dramatic wall of dust, impressing scientists with its size and strength.

The storm is partly influenced by Tropical Storm Alberto, which caused flooding in Texas and Mexico and also led to flash flooding in areas recently affected by wildfires that spread over 20,000 acres and killed at least two people,

Aerial photographs and social media posts showcased the dust storm’s dramatic appearance. 

Scientists note that haboobs, intense sand or dust storms, are most common in the Desert Southwest and the Middle East.