5/12/2009
Reed Hollinshead
ITD Communication
208-334-8881
reed.hollinshead@itd.idaho.gov
Dust storm closes Interstate 15 between Idaho Falls and Roberts and U.S. 20 in Ashton Hill area
RIGBY - Reduced visibility caused by blowing dust has closed Interstate 15 between Idaho Falls and Roberts, and U.S. 20 in the Ashton Hill area this afternoon, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) announced.
I-15 closed from milepost 119 to 134.5 at approximately 1:45 p.m., and U.S. 20 from milepost 362 to 370 (from after 1425 North Road to before 2250 North Road) closed about 40 minutes later.
The I-15 detour route:
- Northbound traffic is being detoured from I‑15 to U.S. 20 in Idaho Falls and then from U.S. 20 in Rigby to Idaho 48, which travels to Roberts and I-15.
- Southbound traffic is being detoured from I-15 to Idaho 48 in Roberts and then from Idaho 48 to U.S. 20 in Rigby, then south to I-15 in Idaho Falls.
The National Weather Service forecasts sustained winds of 35 to 40 mph this afternoon and evening, with gusts of up to 60 mph. Gusts of 62 mph have been reported in Sugar City.
Motorists should drive with extreme care and observe traffic signs and signals. High winds make for dangerous driving conditions.
For current highway and weather conditions throughout the state, access the Idaho Traveler Services Web site at 511.idaho.gov or call 5-1-1 from phones within Idaho. Reports are updated daily or whenever conditions change on Idaho highways.