Gusting winds prompt warning of unhealthy dust

Thursday, May 8, 2003 | 10:19 a.m.

Officials are warning that strong winds expected in Southern Nevada this afternoon and evening could stir up unhealthy amounts of dust.

The National Weather Service and the Clark County Air Quality Division have issued health advisories for today. Small children, the elderly and anyone else who is sensitive to dust or susceptible to respiratory problems such as bronchitis or asthma should stay indoors if possible during the windstorm.

Wind gusts could exceed 45 mph today, weather service forecasters said. The strong winds are expected to last throughout the day.

Although the storm is expected to leave the area by Friday, cold air behind the weather system could set a record for the lowest high recorded on May 9. In addition, Friday's low is expected to dip into the high 40s.

Only a trace of rain accompanied the storm Wednesday night.

The dry, windy conditions worsen dust problems in the valley, county spokeswoman Stacey Welling said. The Las Vegas Valley does not meet federal 24-hour air quality standards for dust.

As part of the county's advisory, officials are notifying construction site operators to take steps to stabilize its surface to prevent blowing dust and debris as required by local air quality regulations.

The notices are part of a new program to alert construction operators before a potential dust storm, Welling said.

There is a 24-hour dust complaint hotline. Call 385-DUST (3878) to report excessive amounts of blowing dust.

County officials also recommend the following tips to reduce dust: