Dust devils can hit without warning, especially since they occur on fair weather days with blue skies and pleasant conditions.
Some folks in Fairfield, Calif. got a firsthand experience with a violent dust devil that ripped panels off a roof and sent debris flying.
Skies were mostly clear that day and people were just enjoying the day at a skate park when suddenly the wind picked up and dirt and dust started swirling.
People scattered and looked for cover. One person got stuck within the whirlwind. Thankfully, no one was hurt.
Dust devils form in fair weather conditions. The sun will heat the ground and form a small area of low pressure which starts the circulation. The warmer air starts to rise to the cooler air above and with the air spinning will start to pick up dirt and dust.
These are different from tornadoes which form from the top down. Dust devils form from the ground and move upward.
They are typically about 10-100 feet wide but can stretch hundreds of feet in the air. They don’t last long but can cause some damage. It’s always best to seek shelter when you see one happening.
Continue the conversation with Monica on Facebook.
________________________________________________________________
WATCH ALSO: Safest places to be during lightning | GEEK LAB