The real harm of dust storms
The dust storm caused multiple vehicles to crash along I-55 on May 1, 2023 in southern Sangamon and northern Montgomery counties. Illinois Department of Transportation
On May 1, 2023, a dust storm with wind gusts of over 50 miles per hour swept off newly planted soil from nearby farms and covered parts of the I-55 interstate. This led to more than 70 vehicle crashes, with eight people killed and several injured. We talked about what caused the dust storm, what changes can be made to prevent this tragedy, and why some farmers are hesitant to implement these new changes.
Guests:
Ed Shimon
Meteorologist, National Weather Service Central Illinois
Dylan Cook
Midwest Policy Manager, American Farmland Trust; owner and operator of Cook Farm in Bloomington
Liz Rupel
Lead Organizer, Illinois Stewardship Alliance