Forecast of wind gusts prompts dust warning

Desert dust is going to fly this week as high winds sweep into the valley during the next few days, Clark County officials said Monday.

The county Department of Air Quality and Environmental Management is warning of possible unhealthy levels of dust that could be generated today and Wednesday.

According to the National Weather Service in Las Vegas, wind gusts could reach 35 mph this afternoon. The high for today is expected to be 95 degrees.

Stronger winds are expected Wednesday.

The weather service said winds could reach up to 40 mph when a cold front is expected to hit the Las Vegas Valley. The high for Wednesday is expected to be 75 degrees.

The county has sent notices to construction sites so employers can take precautions to prevent blowing dust.

According to the county, airborne dust can aggravate respiratory diseases such as bronchitis and asthma. Children and the elderly with respiratory ailments are urged to stay indoors during dust storms.

Officials also recommend that people follow these guidelines in order to avoid airborne dust: drive slowly on unpaved roads; avoid driving on vacant lots; fence off barren property or cover it with gravel or desert landscaping; and use off-road vehicles only in approved areas.