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Tumbleweed Takeover at Nevada National Security Site

One of the unique challenges the EM Nevada Program faces was on display at the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS) in early March when strong winds caused a “tumbleweed takeover” on the site.

Office of Environmental Management

April 9, 2024
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Tumbleweed Takeover at Nevada National Security Site.

LAS VEGASOne of the unique challenges the EM Nevada Program faces was on display at the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS) in early March when strong winds caused a “tumbleweed takeover” on the site. Wind gusts approaching 70 miles per hour prompted a tumbleweed invasion on property surrounding several buildings at the NNSS, including one used by the EM Nevada Program. The scenes throughout the site were startling as hungry tumbleweed clusters consumed roadsides, fences and other structures. In some instances, tumbleweed stacked as high as trailers, making access impossible. Crews at the site soon cleared out the accumulation and work resumed. Photos courtesy of Mission Support and Test Services.

Tags:
  • Environmental and Legacy Management
  • Emergency Response
  • Energy Security
  • Extreme Weather Resiliency
  • National Labs