5 Dead in Colorado Highway Crashes After Blowing Dirt Causes Whiteout

Over 30 vehicles, including 7 semitrailers, involved in crashes on Interstate 25 near Pueblo

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A total of five people have died in crashes on a Colorado interstate involving over 30 vehicles, including seven semitrailers, after blowing dirt made it nearly impossible to see, authorities said. Dirt from parched land along the interstate was kicked up by heavy winds and blew across the interstate around 10 a.m. Tuesday, causing a 'brown out' and severely limiting visibility.

Why it matters

The deadly crashes on Interstate 25 near Pueblo highlight the dangers of poor visibility on highways, especially in areas prone to high winds and dry conditions that can lead to blowing dust or dirt. This incident raises questions about road safety measures and emergency response protocols in such situations.

The details

There were crashes on both sides of the interstate, but the one on the southbound side only led to property damage. One of the vehicles involved was a pickup hauling a livestock trailer carrying 30 sheep and one goat. Four of the sheep were too severely injured to recover. The cause of the crashes is still under investigation, but the lack of visibility will be considered as one of the factors.

  • The crashes occurred around 10 a.m. on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.
  • Gusts of up to around 70 mph were reported in the region that morning.

The players

Colorado State Patrol

The state law enforcement agency investigating the crashes.

Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region

The organization that was called to help with the livestock trailer involved in the crashes.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Visibility was next to nothing.”

— Maj. Brian Lyons, Colorado State Patrol (ksgf.com)

What’s next

The Colorado State Patrol is continuing to investigate the cause of the crashes, with the lack of visibility being a key factor.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of road safety measures and emergency response protocols in areas prone to extreme weather conditions that can severely limit visibility and lead to multi-vehicle crashes with devastating consequences.