12/30/2011
Dust storm closes Interstate 15 between Idaho Falls and Roberts again
RIGBY - Reduced visibility caused by blowing dust prompted the Idaho
Transportation Department to again close Interstate 15 between Idaho Falls and
Roberts today (Friday, Dec. 30).
The
closure, which came at 4:20 p.m., is between mileposts 119 and 135.
Dust storms in late December on this stretch of interstate are extremely
rare. Dust storms closed this portion of the interstate twice last
month and again yesterday.
- 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 runs to Roberts and reconnects to 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 transportation department estimates the interstate will reopen sometime Saturday morning, when the wind is expected to subside.
ITD advises motorists to drive with extreme caution and observe traffic signs and signals. High winds can create dangerous driving conditions.