Windstorms can seem like they come out of nowhere, hitting with a sudden blast. They might be hundreds of miles long, stretching over several states, or just in your neighborhood.

A powerful storm is unleashing a blizzard across the central United States after its strong winds stirred up dangerous dust storms and wildfires that continue to spread in parts of the Plains.

On the last official day of astronomical winter, a wild storm will pack severe weather with the potential for several tornadoes, but also powerful wind gusts in thunderstorms, showers, dusty air and blizzard conditions.

A gust of wind sweeps over bare soil, kicking up enough dirt and dust to cut visibility to nearly zero, and for drivers, the dust storm seems to come out of nowhere.Such conditions resulted in a pileup on Interstate 70 last week in western Kansas involving dozens of cars and trucks that left eight people dead.

Another round of intense dust storms led to multiple crashes and at least three injuries along New Mexico highways and interstates Tuesday, officials said.