KMPH Fox 26 Central San Joaquin Valley News Source in Fresno, California Entertainment, News, Sports and Weather | Strong Winds Create Dust Storms in the Valley

Strong Winds Create Dust Storms in the Valley

By Norma Yuriar

Fresno, County Calif.  (KMPH News) - It's worst than dense fog, that's how many are describing a strong wind storm that made its way through the San Joaquin Valley Tuesday.

"It's horrific, this is probably the most severe I've seen," Debra Lombardozzi said.

33 mile an hour wind gusts in Madera County not only rattled road signs but nerves.  The California Highway Patrol diverted drivers after a big rig collided with two cars near Avenue 7 ½ - where visibility was extremely low.

"Madera County is a large agricultural area, most of the road conditions will be like this for a while until we get some rain," CHP Officer Ronnie Lopez said.

Thirty miles south of Madera in Raisin City the windy weather also left its mark in the small Fresno County community.

"I was shocked that the tree fell," Raisin City Resident Lucy Silverio said.

The 60 foot tree snapped, knocking down power lines and power to Raisin City residents.

"I don't want to spend the night in a cold house," Silverio said.  "I'm going to stay with daughter in Fresno."

PG&E told KMPH News - crews restored power to the area by 8pm.

Blowing dust also was being blamed for unhealthy air quality throughout the Valley, prompting local air pollution officials to issue an alert.

"We have issued a cautionary statement to advise people in areas that may be affected to pay attention to what's going on and take precautionary measures," Valley Air District Spokesperson Janelle Schneider said.

The advisory issued Tuesday is affecting Fresno, Madera, Merced, Kings and Tulare Counties.

To check for power outages in your neighborhood go to: 

http://www.pge.com/myhome/customerservice/energystatus/outagemap/