After severe storms this morning, North Texans observed an unusual orange sky due to dust from West Texas. Strong winds carried the dust into the Dallas Fort-Worth area around 2 p.m. The phenomenon was caused by a haboob, a dust storm resulting from intense downdrafts from thunderstorms, which elevate dust particles into the air. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) describes haboobs as “winds” or “blows,” originating from the Arabic term “haab.” As cold air hits the ground, it creates an outflow that spreads dust over vast areas, creating the visible dust front seen in the sky.
Following the intense storms this morning, numerous residents in North Texas were treated to an unusual sight in the sky.
What causes the orange hue in the sky?
Here’s what we know:
Dust from West Texas has arrived in the Dallas Fort-Worth area.
Footage from our North Dallas tower camera captured the orange dust hovering over the city around 2 p.m.
The vigorous winds sweeping through North Texas transported the dust particles into our vicinity.
Dallas weather: How powerful were the winds on Tuesday?
Earlier this week, a haboob formed in West Texas, stirring up the dust.
Eventually, the dust dispersed from the area.
Downtown Dallas – Bank of America Plaza North
Downtown Dallas – Bank of America Plaza South
North Dallas – Pinnacle Tower
Downtown Fort Worth – Burnett Plaza
DFW International Airport
What exactly is a haboob?
A haboob is essentially a type of dust storm.
According to NOAA, the term derives from the Arabic word “haab,” which translates to wind or blow.
Haboobs occur due to intense downdrafts produced by nearby thunderstorms. When heavy rain or a collapsing storm triggers a significant rush of cold air descending toward the ground, this air disperses outward upon impact — similar to how a water balloon bursts, sending water in all directions; however, in this instance, it’s air that spreads out.
The leading edge of this air current — referred to as an outflow boundary — can lift a substantial amount of dust and dirt from the dry ground, forming a dust front as it moves.
The Source: The information presented in this article is sourced from the FOX 4 weather team and tower cameras located throughout North Texas. Insights regarding haboobs are obtained from FOX Weather.