On May 1, 2023, a dust storm in south-central Illinois caused a series of highway collisions on Interstate 55 near Farmersville, resulting in multiple fatalities and dozens of injuries. Illinois State Police Major Ryan Starrick reported that the cause of the crashes was due to excessive winds blowing dirt from farm fields across the highway, leading to zero visibility. Six people were confirmed dead, and more than 30 people were hospitalized with injuries from minor to life-threatening. The Illinois State Police is currently investigating the incident and providing assistance to those affected.