Idaho Falls, ID (March 13, 2026) – A multi-vehicle crash slowed traffic on Thursday afternoon, March 12, on southbound Interstate 15 near mile marker 113 in Idaho Falls.
EMS units responded around 3:04 p.m. after reports of several vehicles involved in a collision near the Melaleuca Global Headquarters building. The crash occurred during a dust storm that significantly reduced visibility along the highway.
Officials said blowing dust from high winds created hazardous driving conditions in the area. Traffic on the interstate was slowed as crews worked at the scene and monitored the situation.
The crash remains under investigation.
Our thoughts remain with those affected as crews continue to assess the situation.
How Dust Storms Can Lead to Highway Crashes
Highways such as Interstate 15 can become dangerous when strong winds lift dust and sand into the air. These conditions may create sudden visibility problems that make it difficult for drivers to see vehicles ahead.
When visibility drops quickly, drivers may not have enough time to slow down or avoid vehicles that have already reduced speed. This can lead to chain-reaction crashes involving multiple vehicles traveling close together.
Dust storms can also create uneven visibility across different sections of a roadway. A driver may move from clear conditions into a thick wall of dust within seconds, increasing the risk of collisions if traffic ahead is already slowing or stopping.
