Utah sandstorm causes car accidents, killing 7

At least 7 people died in a series of car accidents during a sandstorm in Utah on Sunday, authorities said.

About 20 vehicles were involved in the 4:30 p.m. crashes on I-15 in Millard County, Utah’s Department of Public Safety said in a press release.

In addition, several people were critically injured in the wreckage and taken to surrounding hospitals.

The highway was closed in both directions after the destruction, Fox reported 13.

The sandstorm was triggered by strong winds in the region, the authorities said.

Utah Governor Spencer Cox responded to the crashes in a statement posted on twitter.

“We are stunned and saddened by the terrible accidents in Millard County,” wrote Cox.

“We pray fervently for the relatives of the deceased and for those who are fighting for their lives.”