Kristian, I think we were probably there the exact same time
I'd have to say that we've camped through a few sand storms in ground tents, and have woken up to a gritty morning.
With the Camping Lab RTT, we were both amazed with the winds we slept through and the fact that we woke up to no sand in the tent at all. Amazing what that thing will stand up to! If it can stay upright in those winds, I'd say its safe in about anything less than a Hurricane
That area sure is beautiful isnt it!!