Strong Winds Cause Crashes, Damage, Outages in the South Plains

The extent of the damage and any injuries are unknown, but DPS advises everyone to check road conditions before heading out.

Just before 11 a.m. Friday, Lubbock Fire Rescue responded to a tractor-trailer rollover in the 3700 block of East Loop 289 caused by the winds. The driver was able to get out on their own and received treatment for minor injuries.

A semi-truck also overturned on Highway 84 near mile marker 254 early March 14. DPS asks people to avoid that area, although no injuries have been reported.

Strong winds started to hit the South Plains early this morning, with a gust reaching 81 mph at Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport around 7:15 a.m. The National Weather Service has issued a Blowing Dust Advisory until 8:00 p.m. today, with gusts potentially reaching up to 90 mph in some areas of the region.

The high gusts throughout the day have damaged many properties and businesses in town. Custom Pipe and Fabrication, located at 4717 US-84, had the roof of one of its neighboring garage buildings collapse due to the strong winds.

Power outages around Lubbock have been an issue on Friday. Schools like Coronado High School, McCool Academy, and Dunbar College Prep Academy dismissed students to their parents early after flickering lights and blackouts occured across Lubbock. Buses will run earlier, and staff will stay at the schools until all students are picked up, according to LISD.

Multiple flights at Lubbock Airport have been canceled due to weather conditions. Passengers are encouraged to check their flight status on the Lubbock Airport website.

The City of Lubbock released a statement urging people to avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary. Law enforcement is working to direct traffic in parts of Lubbock, including the intersection of 34th Street and Slide Road, where traffic signals are not working.

Stay updated with road closures and weather conditions by visiting Drive Texas.