On Saturday at 11:11 p.m. the National Weather Service released a dense fog advisory in effect until Sunday Nov. 30, at 8 a.m. for 5 freeway through Grapevine.
The NWS Hanford CA states to expect, “Visibility one quarter mile or less in dense fog.”
“Low visibility could make driving conditions hazardous,” according to the NWS. “If driving, slow down, use your headlights, and leave plenty of distance ahead of you.”
Navigating fog: Safety tips by the NWS
When a dense fog advisory is issued for your area, it means that widespread dense fog has developed and visibility can plummet to a quarter-mile or less. These conditions pose challenges for travel, so exercise extra caution on the road or consider postponing your trip if possible.
If you must drive in foggy conditions, keep the following safety tips in mind:
Reduce speed:
Slow down and allocate extra travel time to reach your destination safely.
Visibility matters:
Ensure your vehicle is visible to others by using low-beam headlights, which automatically activate your taillights. Utilize fog lights if your vehicle is equipped with them.
Avoid high-beams:
Refrain from using high-beam headlights, as they create glare that impairs your visibility on the road.
Keep your distance:
Keep a considerable following distance to account for sudden stops or shifts in traffic patterns.
Stay in your lane:
Use the road’s lane markings as a guide to remaining in the correct lane.
Zero visibility strategy:
In cases of near-zero visibility due to dense fog, initiate your hazard lights and locate a secure spot, such as a nearby business parking area, to pull over and come to a halt.
Limited parking options:
If no parking area is available, pull your vehicle as far to the roadside as possible. Once stationary, turn off all lights except the hazard flashers, engage the emergency brake, and release the brake pedal to ensure your tail lights are not illuminated, reducing the risk of other drivers colliding with your stationary vehicle.
By adhering to these precautions from the NWS, you can navigate foggy conditions more safely, reducing the likelihood of accidents and ensuring your personal safety.