High Wind and Blowing Dust Warning Issued for Cheyenne County, Kansas

Weather Alerts high NOAA · · Cheyenne County, Kansas

The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Warning for Cheyenne County until 6 PM CST, with gusts up to 65 mph and blowing dust creating life-threatening travel conditions.

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Goodland, KS, has issued a High Wind Warning and a Blowing Dust Warning. The alert was issued on February 17 at 12:50 PM CST and remains in effect until 6:00 PM CST this evening.

Affected Areas

This weather alert specifically impacts Cheyenne County in Kansas.

What You Should Do

Residents are advised to take preventative measures such as staying indoors or wearing protective breathing masks if outside to avoid respiratory issues caused by high dust concentrations.

If you encounter blowing dust while driving, be prepared for a sudden drop in visibility to near zero. The NWS recommends the “Pull Aside, Stay Alive” protocol: pull off the road as far as possible, put your vehicle in park, turn your lights all the way off, and keep your foot off the brake pedal. Additionally, fasten loose objects or shelter them in a safe location to prevent damage from high winds. Drivers of high-profile vehicles should use extra caution.

Expected Conditions

  • Wind Speed: West winds between 25 to 35 mph with gusts reaching up to 65 mph.
  • Visibility: Numerous plumes of blowing dust will continue, with brownout conditions anticipated up to five miles downwind of the source of each plume. Visibilities may change rapidly over short distances.
  • Hazards: Severely limited visibilities, dangerous and possibly life-threatening travel, and potential power outages or property damage from high winds.

Timeline

The High Wind Warning and Blowing Dust Warning are effective immediately and are expected to conclude at 6:00 PM CST this evening, February 17, 2026.

Source: NOAA Official Notice