Health officials have issued urgent air quality warnings along parts of the U.S.–Mexico border after hazardous pollution levels were recorded across areas of Texas and New Mexico. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency placed a high-level alert over a large region centered around El Paso, where strong winds have stirred up heavy dust and smoke, creating dangerous conditions. The National Weather Service also issued blowing dust advisories, warning that visibility could suddenly drop and outdoor conditions could quickly become unsafe. Air quality monitoring services reported an Air Quality Index reading near 290, considered hazardous for everyone, including healthy individuals, and worse than many major cities worldwide at the time.

Experts say the pollution mainly consists of PM10 particles, tiny dust and debris small enough to be inhaled deeply into the lungs, potentially worsening asthma, respiratory illnesses, and heart conditions. Authorities are urging residents to stay indoors, keep windows closed, and avoid outdoor activities until conditions improve. Drivers encountering dust storms are advised to pull off roads safely and turn off vehicle lights to avoid accidents. In addition, strong wind warnings and wildfire risk alerts have been issued across parts of the Southwest and Great Plains, as dry and windy conditions increase the chance of fires spreading quickly. Officials continue to monitor the situation and encourage residents to follow safety guidance to reduce health risks until cleaner air returns.