Massive Dust Storm Reduces Visibility, Causes Vehicle Pileup on Central California Highway

This photograph, provided by CAL FIRE Tulare Unit, shows a dust storm approaching the Porterville Air Attack Base Monday, Nov. 11, 2024 outside of Porterville, Calif. CAL FIRE Tulare Unit via AP

CHOWCHILLA, Calif.—A powerful dust storm known as a haboob caused a vehicle pile-up on a central California highway, sending several people to hospitals with minor injuries, authorities said.

An enormous rolling cloud of dust reduced visibility Monday afternoon on State Route 152 in Madera County, causing motorists to crash into one another, according to the California Highway Patrol.