Updates: Windy, dusty weather closes roads; air quality advisory in effect. What to know

Paul Albani-Burgio and Erin Rode, Palm Springs Desert Sun
Updated ·2 min read

Gene Autry Trail and Vista Chino are reopened in Palm Springs as strong winds and dust inundate the Coachella Valley.

With wind in the forecast, portions of the Coachella Valley could also experience unhealthy air quality Thursday, officials said.

In addition, an airport weather warning has been issued for Palm Springs International Airport until 11 a.m. Thursday. Wind gusts are at 35 knots and greater. North to northwest gusts are reported at 40 knots. At 8 a.m., only two flights were reported delayed at PSP, according to the airport's website.

A windblown dust advisory issued by the South Coast Air Quality Management District started at 9 p.m. Wednesday and will remain in effect through noon Thursday. Here is what to know and how to stay safe.

Palm Springs road closures, openings

As of around 12:15 p.m. Thursday:

  • OPEN: Gene Autry Trail has reopened between Interstate 10 and Via Escuela, and

  • OPEN: Vista Chino has reopened after and earlier closure between Clubhouse View and Palm Springs city limits.

What kind of air quality impacts are expected?

The air quality monitoring agency's advisory states that the expected winds could blow dust and dirt into the air and could result in air quality that is rated as “Unhealthy for sensitive groups” or worse. The sensitive groups include older adults, children and people who have either who have either diabetes or heart and lung disease, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

If the air quality drops into the “Unhealthy,” “Very Unhealthy” or “Hazardous” categories, anyone who is outdoors may experience negative health effects.

What areas are under the advisory?

The advisory covers San Gorgonio Pass, the Coachella Valley and eastern Riverside County

How can you check the air quality in your area?

AQMD maintains an interactive hourly air quality map at aqmd.gov. The agency warns that air quality can vary significantly in different locations and change quickly depending on wind and other factors.

How can you keep safe when the air quality is bad?

  • Limit your exposure by remaining indoors with windows and doors closed or seeking alternate shelter.

  • Avoid vigorous physical activity.

  • Run your air conditioning and/or an air purifier. If possible, do not use swamp coolers or whole house fans that bring in outside air

  • Help minimize dust pollution by stabilizing loose soils and slowing down if driving on dirt

Contributing: City News Service. This is a developing story.

This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Updates: Road closures in Palm Springs area on Thursday