Chowchilla, California — A massive dust storm, commonly known as a haboob, swept across central California Monday afternoon, causing a major vehicle pileup on State Route 152 in Madera County.
The sudden storm severely reduced visibility, resulting in a chain-reaction crash that, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), sent several individuals to the hospital with minor injuries.
The incident involved approximately 20 vehicles as the thick wall of dust descended on the area near Chowchilla. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection shared footage online, showing the dust storm rapidly blanketing the landscape, leaving drivers unable to see the road.
Motorist Delissa Fulce, one of those caught in the pileup, described the ordeal as terrifying. She said they were hit, initially thinking they were safe, only to be struck repeatedly. She added that she genuinely thought they might not survive and expressed gratitude for escaping with minor injuries.
Our thoughts are with those affected, and we hope for their quick recovery.
