RV Safety in a Dust Storm 

The joys and simple pleasures of summertime RV travel and camping can sometimes be overshadowed by inclement weather and natural disasters. From flooding and tornadoes to hurricanes and wildfires, the United States experiences a wide range of these events. One type of storm that isn’t as common but demands just as much respect as its counterparts is a dust storm. 

As an RVer, it’s important for you to keep some safety tips in mind in case you’re traveling in an area prone to dust storms. But before we explore a few tips, let’s discuss what a dust storm is. 

What is a Dust Storm? 

Common in desert and arid locations, such as Arizona, a dust storm occurs when an afternoon thunderstorm releases rain on desert land. A downdraft of cold air plummets to the earth and moves outward. This creates strong winds that pick up dust, dirt, and debris and eventually forms into a dust storm. 

Unfortunately, there can sometimes be no warning for these storms (which are also called sand storms or haboobs). They can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, and the damage they cause can be significant. The sand particles kicked up in a dust storm can damage your skin, eyes, nose, and lungs if you’re not protected. High winds can damage structures and blow away loose items. 

What to Do If You’re Caught in a Dust Storm in Your RV

If You’re Driving, Pull Over 

If you’re driving your RV and happen to get caught in a dust storm, you should stay calm and carefully pull over as soon as you can. Set the parking brake in the rig or your tow vehicle and turn off all your lights. This may seem counterintuitive during a storm that can cause visibility to drop to zero, but it’s for safety: If people driving by see your lights while you’re pulled off on the side of the road, they may follow the lights and crash into your rig. Stay inside your vehicle and keep all windows and doors closed. 

If You’re Stationary, Find Shelter

You can be camping in your RV but away from it when a dust storm strikes. Find shelter, whether it’s your rig or a building, as soon as you can. Ideally, you’ll want to be in a place that will protect you from gusts of wind and help keep sand from getting into your eyes, nose, and mouth. If you have time, seal up RV windows, doors, and vents with plastic and duct tape to help keep sand particles out. In addition, store lightweight and loose items in your camp setup and unhook your electrical, water and sewer connections to keep sand and dust out of your hookup connections.

Have you ever been caught in a dust storm? If so, what was your experience like? Let us know in the comments or contact us today!