15 YEARS AGO TODAY, A WALL OF DUST SWEPT ACROSS LUBBOCK

October 17 marks 15 years since a powerful dust storm swept across the South Plains, damaging property and briefly reducing visibility across much of the region to nearly nothing.

On October 17, 2011, a fast moving cold front pushed south through the area. The resulting haboob stretched roughly 250 miles from eastern New Mexico across the South Plains.

Recorded gusts reached 74 mph in Lubbock, 71 mph in Slaton and 75 mph in Post. Strong winds damaged roofs, trees and power lines, while outages affected communities across the region.

Lubbock’s airport also sustained damage, including to its air traffic control tower and fire station. The storm’s estimated economic damage totaled $25 million.

The event drew national attention because of the size of the dust wall and the conditions it left behind. Today’s anniversary recalls a documented weather event that affected homes, travel and public infrastructure throughout the 806.

Weather history coverage presented by Nothin Butt Smokes.

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