Clark County officials issued a dust advisory that takes effect Thursday as high winds are expected in the area.
The advisory runs from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., when residents and construction sites are advised to limit exposure outside, the Clark County Division of Air Quality said in a press release.
Northwest winds are forecast to blow between 20 and 23 mph, with gusts expected to reach 34 mph at the Harry Reid International Airport on Thursday, according to the National Weather Service. Gusts in other parts of the county could reach 45 mph.
Airborne dust kicked up by the wind can carry particles that aggravate respiratory diseases, according to the release. Under windy conditions, those with heart or lung disease, as well as older adults and children may feel better spending as much time as possible indoors.
The county recommends limiting outdoor exertion on windy days when dust is in the air. Residents are being urged to keep windows and doors closed, to consider changing their indoor air filters if they are dirty, and to run air conditioning instead when available.
Motorists are also advised to keep dust down by driving slowly on unpaved roads, according to the release. The county is also asking motorists to not take short cuts across vacant lots. Those with off-road vehicles are being asked to ride in approved areas outside the urban Las Vegas Valley.
The county is further urging residents to report excessive dust blowing from construction sites, vacant lots or other facilities by calling 702-385-3878.
Contact Casey Harrison at charrison@reviewjournal.com. Follow him on X, @Casey_Harrison1.