A haboob, also known as a dust storm, swept through parts of Lubbock, Texas on the evening of Monday, October 17, 2011. A strong cold front triggered thunderstorms that brought strong winds down to the surface, picking up dust and dirt and pulling it towards the city of Lubbock, Texas.
The ongoing drought across Texas has contributed to the increasing numbers of dust storms across this region this past year. The occurrence of haboobs will likely become common as drought conditions are expected to continue across Texas.
Bottom line: A large haboob hit parts of Lubbock, Texas blacking out the city and causing wind damage to powerlines, roofs, and even parts of the airport. A couple of wildfires were sparked, but luckily, have all been under control.