DC Invaded By A Dust Storm From Midwest

Item

Title

DC Invaded By A Dust Storm From Midwest

Description

In March 1935 a dust storm hit Washington, DC, caused by soil erosion in the midwest in what came to be called the Dust Bowl. Washington had already experienced at least one dust storm, in May the previous year, but this storm had special timing. It hit on the day Hugh Bennett, Director of the Soil Erosion Service, testified before Congress for the need to continue funding the program, which worked to stop the erosion causing the dust storms. Washingtonians saw firsthand the impact of soil erosion as dust covered the Mall and city and Congress approved changes.

Date

03/22/1935

Coverage

1920-1949

Source

Washington Post

topic

environment

Item sets